GIANYAR – Children with disabilities from Yayasan Peduli Kemanusiaan (YPK) Bali visited the Kaori Incense Factory in Mas Village, Ubud District, Gianyar Regency, on Friday, January 17, 2025.
Owner of PT Kaori Alam Nusantara (KAN), Ni Kadek Winie Kaori Intan Mahkota, expressed her appreciation for the children’s visit to the Kaori factory.
“YPK Bali’s children with disabilities were very enthusiastic to learn how to make incense. Later, we add fragrance so it carries the signature aroma of Kaori Incense,” said Winie Kaori.
She explained that Kaori Incense is a labor-intensive product, requiring a long process from powdered ingredients to the distinctive fragrance believed to bring blessings. Beyond religious purposes, Kaori’s scents are also crafted for healing, helping individuals achieve deeper calmness, reflection, and self-introspection.
“We taught the children step by step, from molding incense, packaging, adding fragrance, to how it can later be marketed,” she added.
Kaori Incense is also promoted as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical-based air fresheners. For example, in exports to New Zealand and Europe, Kaori products are marketed as natural replacements for conventional fresheners.
“Through Kaori, we want to benefit the community, not just focus on profits. We aim to contribute to society, the environment, and the universe, while creating job opportunities and improving local livelihoods,” Winie emphasized.
Meanwhile, Ni Putu Windayani, Coordinator of the Education Unit at YPK Bali, said the children gained an extraordinary learning experience at the factory.
“This visit is meant to teach the children the basics of incense-making—what materials are used, how they are mixed, and the stages of production. Hopefully, this knowledge can inspire them to become entrepreneurs in the future,” she explained.
The program also trained the children in social interaction and active communication outside their community. Kaori was chosen for its disability-friendly facilities, including ramps and supportive staff.
“This is our second visit. The children could observe the entire process, from raw materials to finished products ready for sale,” Windayani said.
YPK Bali, based in Denpasar, currently supports 119 children with disabilities. For this activity, eight children were selected to join the visit.
“These eight represent the beginner group who are encouraged to build confidence and face others. We want them to leave with both knowledge and courage,” Windayani noted.
She added that incense-making is a skill that can be practiced at home with family involvement, offering future business potential.
“By introducing them to Kaori Incense production, we hope they see it as an activity they can pursue from home, supported by their families, without the need for extensive mobility,” she concluded.