PANGKALPINANG -- Endemic animals play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. They contribute to the food chain, pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. Recognizing this importance, PT Timah remains committed to preserving endemic species in its operational areas.
A balanced ecosystem benefits not only wildlife but also humans. A healthy ecosystem ensures the availability of clean water, fresh air, fertile soil, and helps reduce the risk of natural disasters. Preserving endemic species helps sustain these processes naturally and continuously.
PT Timah has launched several initiatives to protect endemic wildlife through rehabilitation and conservation programs carried out in a sustainable manner.
Among these initiatives is the Biodiversity (KEHATI) program implemented in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province and the Kundur-Karimun area.
PT Timah, in collaboration with the Alobi Foundation, also established the Alobi Wildlife Rescue Center (PPS) at the Air Jangkang Reclamation Village. Hundreds of protected animals are being rehabilitated on this former mining land.
In addition, PT Timah consistently carries out post-mining rehabilitation and reclamation through tree planting and greening programs.
As a member of the Mining Industry Indonesia (MIND ID) holding, PT Timah also maintains a Sambar deer breeding center on Belitung Island. Sambar deer are distinctive for their larger body size compared to other deer species.
PT Timah’s Department Head of Corporate Communication, Anggi Siahaan, stated that preserving endemic animals not only helps maintain ecological balance but also aligns with sustainable environmental management.
“Through reclamation and revegetation programs, the company re-plants various native trees that serve as food sources and shelter for wild and endemic species,” said Anggi.
In addition to habitat preservation, the company regularly educates communities about the importance of protecting endemic animals. This educational outreach is carried out in collaboration with the Alobi Foundation.
“Endemic species are an essential part of the ecosystem. If they go extinct, nature’s balance is disrupted. That’s why the company is committed to preserving them through collaborative efforts with communities, conservation organizations, and local governments,” he added.
Endy R. Yusuf, Manager of PPS Alobi Air Jangkang, said that since 2018, they have worked with PT Timah on ex-situ conservation and rehabilitation of wild and endemic animals.
Currently, Endy said, 93 wild animals are undergoing rehabilitation at PPS Alobi Air Jangkang, including endemic species from Bangka Belitung such as the tarsier (locally known as mentilin), mouse-deer, red junglefowl, sea eagles, and others.
He noted that in addition to rehabilitation, they also release animals back into their natural habitats. Endy emphasized the crucial role of wild animals in maintaining ecosystem balance.
“We also conduct education and outreach to promote environmental conservation and discourage wildlife hunting or capturing. We truly appreciate PT Timah’s ongoing commitment to wildlife rescue and biodiversity conservation,” Endy concluded.
