DENPASAR, BALINEWS — The Denpasar City National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has equipped 20 residents of Sumerta Kelod Village with culinary skills as part of its efforts to empower communities in areas vulnerable to drug-related problems. The training is expected to create business opportunities while strengthening efforts to prevent drug abuse.
The three-day Technical Guidance Program on Life Skills for Communities in Drug-Prone Areas was officially concluded by the Head of BNN Denpasar, Police Commissioner Dr. Leo Dedy Defretes, S.I.K., S.H., M.H., at the Sumerta Kelod Village Office on Thursday (October 22, 2026).
A total of 20 participants from various hamlets in Sumerta Kelod took part in the program, which combined theoretical instruction with hands-on training led by experienced chefs.
On the first day, participants learned how to prepare various types of cakes. The second day focused on preparing a range of dishes, including spaghetti and burgers.
On the final day, participants took part in practical cooking sessions and a culinary competition designed to assess their skills, creativity, cooking techniques, and the quality of their finished products. The Head of BNN Denpasar also inspected and evaluated the participants' dishes before officially closing the program.
Leo Dedy Defretes emphasized that achieving a drug-free Denpasar, known as Denpasar Bersinar (Denpasar Free of Drugs), requires more than efforts to eradicate illicit drug trafficking. Prevention must also involve community empowerment and the development of individual potential.
Through the training, participants are expected to use their culinary skills as a foundation for starting businesses, increasing productivity, and generating additional household income.
BNN Denpasar also encouraged residents to maintain a healthy and productive lifestyle as a way to protect themselves from the risks of drug abuse.
The program forms part of the national initiative for the Prevention and Eradication of Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking (P4GN), particularly through community empowerment in areas vulnerable to drug-related problems.
BNN Denpasar hopes the training will lead to more than improved practical skills. The agency expects participants to apply what they have learned in productive economic activities while helping build a social environment that supports drug prevention.
By strengthening practical skills and economic independence, residents are expected to become more empowered to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from the threat of drug abuse.
