PANGKALPINANG -- As part of its efforts to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth, PT Timah has implemented a Community Development and Empowerment Program (PPM) based on local potential across its operational areas.
PT Timah’s initiative to develop local potential is not only aimed at increasing economic independence, but also at preserving cultural heritage and natural resources in the region.
Collaborating with community groups, PT Timah helps to cultivate local strengths. In Belitung, for example, the company supports pineapple farming in Badau Village with the Aik Jelutung Farmer Group, utilizing post-mining land for the plantation. Badau pineapples are already well-known among the public.
In addition, PT Timah supports the Bina Tani Group in Dusun Gangse, East Belitung, to grow shallots, as the area is considered highly suitable for such agricultural development.
In South Bangka Regency, PT Timah backs the Sinar Baru Farmer Group in Paku Village in their chili farming efforts. With PT Timah’s assistance, from training to productivity improvement, the community has seen tangible benefits.
As a member of the Mining Industry Holding MIND ID, PT Timah also supports the KUPS Garam Mudong Lestari Business Group in Padang Village, Manggar District, East Belitung, in developing salt production in line with their local potential.
In Riau Islands Province, specifically in Kundur, Karimun Regency, PT Timah has partnered with the Tuah Bersatu Fish Farmer Group to cultivate white snapper.
Amran, Chairman of the Tuah Bersatu Group, stated that since receiving guidance from PT Timah, their group has grown significantly and even established new subgroups.
“Our collaboration with PT Timah began in 2023. They have helped us develop white snapper farming. Now, in addition to fishing, we have a new source of income. We've already begun harvesting and selling our produce,” Amran said recently.
Following the success of their fish farming initiative, they also established a hydroponic vegetable farming group with local women, named Lanjut Bestari, to support food self-sufficiency.
“It started with our group, and then we created a women’s hydroponic group and a shrimp paste group. We’re thankful for PT Timah’s support, which has helped improve our local economy. The women, who were previously only housewives, are now growing vegetables. Thank you to PT Timah for caring about our area in Sawang Laut,” he added.
Meanwhile, PT Timah’s Department Head of Corporate Communication, Anggi Siahaan, emphasized that optimizing local potential is a key asset for driving regional economic development. Through its Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) program, PT Timah is committed to helping communities manage their local resources sustainably.
“PT Timah collaborates with communities to develop local potential as a means of stimulating the economy and preserving cultural and natural resources. Community involvement ensures greater and longer-lasting impact,” said Anggi.
Recently, PT Timah also provided capital assistance to 18 Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province to help develop village-based businesses focused on local potential.
This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in poverty alleviation, decent job creation, and economic growth. By empowering local potential, the company not only generates economic value but also strengthens social resilience in communities.
