East Java Woman Turns Cassava Snacks into Thriving Home Business, Earning Millions Daily
Probolinggo, East Java – A former migrant worker in East Java has found success building a home-based business specializing in conventional cassava snacks, achieving a daily turnover averaging Rp 1 million (approximately $65 USD). Fatimah, a single parent, launched “Qtello Ayu” in late 2017 after deciding that working abroad was insufficient to meet her family’s needs.
“There, I really think about this, while there are more and more needs. I used to be a single parent supporting children, so I have the intention to start a business at home,” Fatimah told detikcom on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
Starting with Rp 700,000 (approximately $45 USD) in savings, Fatimah initially offered three cassava-based snacks: Ongol-ongol, Getuk, and Kelepon. The business has since expanded to nine colorful variants, including bird nests, grilled getuk, layer trays, banana trays, Singju Krispi, and Cendol Ayu.
Fatimah emphasizes innovative packaging and marketing through WhatsApp, alumni groups, and social media, relying heavily on word-of-mouth promotion. qtello Ayu now produces up to 400 boxes daily and sees fluctuating daily revenues, sometimes exceeding Rp 2-3 million (approximately $130-$195 USD).
To manage growing demand, Fatimah employs two daily workers alongside family members, maintaining production and quality control from her home. the business’s success has allowed her to pay off debts, including the purchase of a vehicle for operations, and has even inspired one of her children to open a Qtello Ayu branch in bandung.
“Hopefully it can be open in cities because of many requests in these cities. For those who want business, any business is the same, with a process that is not easy. When the spirit decreases, remember again the purpose of the business,” Fatimah advised aspiring entrepreneurs.
Qtello Ayu snacks are available starting at Rp 8,000 (approximately $0.52 USD) per box and can be found on Instagram @qtello_ayu.
(Aid/Kil)
