The Role of Swiftlet Nest Enterprises in Job Creation and Income Generation in Sidorejo Hilir Village, Medan Tembung District, Medan City

Abstract

This study aims to examine how swiftlet nest enterprises contribute to job creation and community income enhancement in Sidorejo Hilir Village, Medan Tembung District, Medan City. As a leading non-oil and gas export commodity, the swiftlet nest industry is considered to have a multiplier effect on local labor absorption, making it vital to analyze in depth at the village level. This study adopted a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design; data were collected through in-depth interviews with key informants (business owners) and primary informants (washing and sorting laborers), complemented by direct observation and field documentation reviews. The findings indicate that these enterprises play a significant role in creating employment opportunities, particularly in labor-intensive post-harvest segments such as nest washing and cleaning, by absorbing local workers especially housewives and youth without requiring higher formal education. Furthermore, the presence of these businesses is proven to boost the real income of the community through daily or piece-rate wage schemes, thereby helping fulfill basic household needs and reducing local unemployment. Internal factors (capital and human resource skills) as well as external factors (export regulations and international market price fluctuations) were identified as the primary determinants of operational stability and income sustainability in this industry.