SOCIALIZATION OF DISHWASHING SOAP MAKING AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO INCREASE SKILLS AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE COMMUNITY IN KELURAHAN WEK II, KECAMATAN BATANGTORU

Abstract

This Community Service (PkM) activity aims to increase knowledge, improve household expenditure efficiency, and provide practical skills to residents of Kelurahan Wek II, Kecamatan Batangtoru, South Tapanuli Regency, through training on self-produced dishwashing soap. The high reliance of the community on branded commercial cleaning products leads to elevated monthly family expenditures. On the other hand, the potential of human resources, particularly the PKK women's group and housewives, has not been optimally utilized in productive economic activities. The execution method used a systematic participatory approach, encompassing preparation and coordination, technical material dissemination, interactive demonstrations, independent practice, and program effectiveness evaluation. The results showed an increase in participants' technical understanding of raw material formulations (such as Texapon, NaCl, colorants, and aromatics), homogeneous mixing techniques, solution settling, and packaging standards. In addition to positively impacting household budget efficiency, this activity was proven to foster public entrepreneurial interest in using these new skills as a foundation for launching home industries in the local area.