PANGKALPINANG -- Indigenous communities play an important role in maintaining cultural and environmental diversity. Amid the pace of modernization, PT Timah continues to be committed to supporting the preservation of indigenous communities in PT Timah's operational areas.
PT Timah's indigenous community empowerment practices include maintaining the existence of the Mapur Indigenous community in Air Abik Hamlet, Gunung Muda Village, Belinyu District, and Bangka Regency.
In the last few years, PT Timah has consistently empowered the Mapur Indigenous community, starting with creating the Gebong Memarong Traditional Village.
Through collaboratively designed programs, MIND ID Mining Industry Holding Members strive to preserve cultural heritage, support economic development, and maintain the balance of the ecosystem which is an integral part of the lives of indigenous communities.
Programs that PT Timah has implemented with the Mapur Indigenous community include building the Gebong Memarong Traditional Village.
Memarong is a typical house of the Mapur traditional community. However, this house became difficult to find over time.
In order to support increasing the capacity of indigenous communities, PT Timah also holds training to support the economy of indigenous communities.
Community empowerment programs carried out include providing non-machine loom equipment (ATBM), and training women's groups with eco-print batik training.
Previously, PT Timah also brought representatives of indigenous communities to carry out a mock study in Baduy, this was to provide an overview of customary area management which could have an economic impact.
Apart from that, PT Timah also held Local Guide Training to train people to become tour guides in the Gebong Memarong Traditional Village to receive tourist visits.
The presence of the Gebong Memarong Traditional Village is expected to build and support a cultural center that functions as a place to maintain and promote the arts, languages ??and traditions of indigenous communities.
Working together with traditional communities, PT Timah also often supports the implementation of annual cultural activities such as Nuju Jerami. No less important, it is hoped that the Gebong Memarong Traditional Village can become a means of education about preserving indigenous communities.
"We realize that Indigenous peoples are the guardians of valuable cultural and environmental heritage. PT Timah is committed to collaborating and harmonizing with them to preserve their culture so that they can create a sustainable positive impact for future generations," said the Head of PT Timah Corporate Communications, Anggi Siahaan.
Gebong Memarong Traditional Village is a Traditional Community Development and Empowerment program that is expected to increase the economic independence of the Mapur community in Air Abik Hamlet. (*)
