Jakarta, Indonesia. December 24 2024 — Asian Agri has partnered with Community Forest Ecosystem Service (CFES), a non-profit organisation specialising in community-based forest conservation, to rehabilitate and protect the Biang Sari customary forest, or Hutan Adat Biang Sari (HABS), at Pengasi Baru Village, Kerinci Regency in Jambi Province. This initiative reflects Asian Agri’s commitment to sustainable development by integrating ecological restoration with community empowerment.
Launched in 2021, the project is set to address broader environmental goals of restoring ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity, the rehabilitation process ensures that the customary rights of the local people are preserved and traditional practices are respected. In addition to the rehabilitation, the project is also expected to contribute for the improvement of the local community well-being.
HABS, traditionally managed by the local indigenous communities for generations, plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, supporting livelihoods and enhancing resilience against climate-related risks. It provides essential resources such as clean water, food, medicinal plants and materials for housing. Additionally, it serves as a natural defense against floods, landslides and the impacts of prolonged dry seasons.
In recognition of its importance, HABS was designated a customary forest through a Regent Decree in 2018, and was awarded to the Pengasi Baru community by Ministry of Environment and Forest.
Asian Agri and CFES have been working to restore and protect the forest’s ecosystem, while ensuring the conservation efforts align with their cultural and economic needs.
The partnership focuses on
- Empowering local communities through training and mentoring programmes, including Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) Patrol methods, to equip the local communities to protect and manage the forest sustainably.
- Initiating forest rehabilitation activities, such as seed collection and production, and tree planting to restore degraded forest areas, and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Developing community welfare programmes, particularly for women to drive economic opportunities and social empowerment.
Part of the Asian Agri’s 2030 commitment, this initiative is not only about restoring forests but also about empowering people to safeguard their heritage and future. As our 5Cs philosophy, we believe that Company interest should align with Community’s in preserving the earth and Climate in order to deliver the sustainable product for the Customer and to contribute positively to the Country economy.
The company remains dedicated to integrating environmental stewardship with community-driven action, setting a model for how businesses can contribute to a sustainable future for people and planet.
