Sumbardaily.com, Padang – A unique chocolate product crafted by a local entrepreneur in Padang, West Sumatra, has officially entered the international market. On Friday, June 20, 2025, L’ile Chocolate, a business brand founded by Priscilla Raisa Pertana, symbolically launched its first export shipment of Chilli Chocolate Cassava Rochers to Singapore.
The product is a distinctive blend of authentic West Sumatran chocolate and spicy kripik balado (chili cassava chips), creating a flavor fusion that brings Minangkabau culinary heritage to a global audience. According to Priscilla, the export is more than just a business achievement—it is a tribute to local richness and pride.
"Today marks an important step in our journey. This chocolate is born out of a collaboration of flavors and a spirit of local pride," said Priscilla during the export launch held at L’ile Chocolate’s production facility on Jalan Thamrin No.39, Alang Laweh, South Padang.
L’ile Chocolate positions itself not only as a chocolate producer but also as an education-based enterprise. Within its production facility, the company has established a mini cocoa museum that is open to tourists and students, contributing to the educational tourism sector in Padang.
"Collaboration is key. We hope that in the future, fellow MSME actors in Padang can empower each other and grow together," said Priscilla, who also serves as the founder of PT Sumatera Chocolate Indonesia.
Fadly Amran: This Is an Export of Padang’s Entrepreneurial Spirit
Padang Mayor Fadly Amran personally witnessed the symbolic launch and expressed pride in L’ile Chocolate’s achievement of breaking into the export market with a culturally rooted product.
"This is not just a chocolate export—it’s an export of values, character, and the spirit of Padang’s MSMEs that dare to compete," said Fadly during his remarks.
He emphasized that this success reflects the implementation of Padang City Government’s strategic program titled UMKM Naik Kelas (“MSMEs Moving Up”). The program is designed to support micro enterprises in progressing systematically toward medium-scale businesses and eventually entering export markets.
"We want MSMEs to grow. This is not only about survival—it’s about moving forward sustainably. UMKM Naik Kelas is a real initiative, not just a slogan," he added.
Building a Collaborative and Integrated Ecosystem
In support of MSME transformation, the Padang City Government has initiated Rumah Wirausaha (Entrepreneur House), a development platform that involves cross-sectoral government agencies, professional trainers, and financial institutions. This initiative aims to create a structured and sustainable ecosystem for MSME development.
"We have simplified licensing processes, brought in top training, and built partnerships with banks to open up access to financing. The goal is to ensure that MSME players do not walk this path alone," Fadly explained.
He also encouraged a new, more professional approach to entrepreneurship development. In his view, business actors in Padang need to be supported by a coaching system that mirrors an entrepreneurship academy.
"I want this approach to MSMEs to be taken seriously. There must be coaching, platforms for exposure, and structured recognition. L’ile Chocolate has proven what’s possible, and I hope they can inspire other MSMEs," he concluded.
Padang Chocolate Goes Global, MSMEs Gain Confidence
This first export milestone represents a significant chapter in Padang’s MSME history. The Chilli Chocolate Cassava Rochers not only symbolize the success of small enterprises in reaching international markets, but also demonstrate that innovation rooted in local culture can compete globally.
With strong government support, a collaborative network, and high product quality, L’ile Chocolate is paving the way for other local entrepreneurs to follow suit and elevate West Sumatra’s name on the global stage. (red)
