PANGKALPINANG -- PT Timah Tbk consistently carries out marine reclamation in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province and the Riau Islands Province. The company has taken various steps to protect coastal ecosystems, such as creating artificial reefs and restocking marine life.
From 2016 to 2024, PT Timah has submerged thousands of artificial reefs and fish shelters in various waters across Bangka Belitung. These artificial habitats have proven to support coral growth and serve as a home for fish, helping to restore marine populations.
PT Timah has also carried out coral transplantation, mangrove planting, and restocking of mangrove crabs in the Riau Islands Province. These efforts not only restore ecosystems but also provide direct benefits to coastal communities, particularly fishermen who have seen increased catches.
Between January and June 2025, as a member of the Mining Industry Holding MIND ID, PT Timah implemented marine reclamation programs including restocking 4,012 squid, restocking 1,400 mangrove crabs, installing 250 meters of wave barriers, and planting 1.5 hectares of mangroves.
In carrying out marine reclamation, PT Timah Tbk also involves local communities in its operational areas as well as local governments. These programs are expected to provide economic benefits to the community.
PT Timah Tbk’s Department Head of Corporate Communication, Anggi Siahaan, stated that marine reclamation is part of the company’s commitment to sustainable mining practices. These efforts also align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to marine ecosystems and climate action.
“Marine reclamation is an important part of the company’s commitment to practicing good and sustainable mining. Reclamation is not just a responsibility but also a collective effort to protect coastal ecosystems,” said Anggi.
Anggi added that aside from marine reclamation, PT Timah also carries out land reclamation in the form of revegetation and reforestation on former mining sites.
PT Timah’s marine reclamation programs have already benefited communities. The presence of artificial reefs and coral gardens has not only improved ecosystems but also increased fish catches and opened opportunities for marine tourism development in Bangka Belitung.
Indra Ambalika Syari, a lecturer in Marine Science and Fisheries at Bangka Belitung University, said that PT Timah is a pioneer in implementing marine reclamation.
According to him, the marine reclamation programs carried out by PT Timah, such as artificial reefs, have already been felt by coastal communities. The coral gardens that were submerged have even become natural habitats.
“PT Timah conducts offshore mining and has demonstrated its concern for marine ecosystems, not only mining but also rehabilitating the sea through reclamation. PT Timah is a pioneer in implementing marine reclamation, and as a result, other mining companies, although not yet on a significant scale, have also begun implementing reclamation,” said Indra.
He added that PT Timah’s marine reclamation initiative is an effort to preserve sustainable marine and coastal ecosystems.
“PT Timah’s initial initiative in marine reclamation has become a role model for other mining companies to take responsibility for marine ecosystems through reclamation. Marine reclamation that is carried out sustainably and involves local communities not only impacts ecosystems but also benefits the local economy,” he said.
Through its marine reclamation programs, PT Timah strives to bring back life beneath the sea. Marine reclamation serves as a bridge between industrial activity and environmental sustainability, ensuring that ecosystems remain alive, balanced, and beneficial to surrounding communities. (*)
