PANGKALPINANG -- In recent years, PT Timah’s efforts to preserve marine ecosystems have continued to grow. Beyond conducting marine reclamation, this TINS-listed mining company has also initiated the deployment of coral gardens, or artificial reef structures, as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable environmental management programs.
The coral garden deployment carried out by PT Timah, a member of the Mining Industry Holding MIND ID, is not only aimed at restoring underwater ecosystems, but also at supporting biodiversity, strengthening coastal communities’ economies, and promoting marine tourism. This initiative aligns with the company's ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) implementation.
Most recently, PT Timah deployed 15 coral garden units in the waters of Pulau Putri, Penyusuk Village, Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
This artificial reef deployment was witnessed by investors from Stockbit Sekuritas who were visiting PT Timah as part of a site visit. They also went diving in the waters of Pulau Putri to see firsthand the existing coral gardens previously deployed by PT Timah.
A coral garden is a man-made structure designed to create new habitats for corals and marine life. For this deployment, PT Timah used concrete and iron structures to stimulate coral growth.
To implement the coral garden program, PT Timah collaborates with local fishermen groups and the Sayang Babel Kite Foundation, empowering local communities in the process.
The coral gardens deployed by PT Timah in Pulau Putri have become a sustained effort, with many of them already turning into natural coral habitats. These gardens have benefitted local fishermen and supported underwater tourism in the area.
In addition to deploying coral gardens, PT Timah and the Sayang Babel Kite Foundation have established a coral nursery in the area. This eliminates the need to harvest fragments from natural corals when deploying new artificial reefs.
Indra Ambalika Syari, Chair of the Sayang Babel Kite Foundation, shared that since 2019, PT Timah’s coral gardens have evolved into natural habitats, as evidenced by the attachment of various marine species. The biodiversity index has reached 1.5.
"The coral gardens that were initially artificial have now become natural habitats. We hope they can accelerate the restoration process of coastal ecosystems," he said.
"Here in Pulau Putri, we already have our own coral nursery, so we no longer need to take fragments from wild corals. PT Timah also involves local communities in the construction, deployment, and monitoring of the coral gardens," he added.
According to him, artificial reefs such as coral gardens play a crucial role in stimulating natural habitats and serve as a key asset in accelerating the rehabilitation of damaged marine ecosystems.
"The reef fish that settle in these artificial habitats can serve as broodstock that eventually migrate to damaged areas, supporting the recovery and speeding up the rehabilitation process of marine ecosystems," said the marine science and fisheries lecturer at Bangka Belitung University.
Ramadan, a fisherman from Penyusuk, shared that they have directly experienced the benefits of the coral gardens deployed by PT Timah. He now fishes closer to shore and has seen an increase in his catch.
"The biggest benefit is that we no longer have to go far out to sea. The coral gardens are only about 1 mile from shore, and there are lots of fish like red snapper. It also saves us fuel costs," he said.
Rama, a local tourism operator, added that the presence of the coral gardens helps him guide tourists to ideal snorkeling spots.
"I usually take guests from Penyusuk Beach to the nearby islands. With these coral garden spots, I can show tourists the best places to snorkel and see marine life. I hope this program continues so there will be even more coral garden sites," he said.
Thomas Wiliam Simaradjo, a retail investor who attended the coral garden deployment event, said PT Timah’s environmental initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to sustainable environmental management.
"PT Timah is doing a great job in environmental management through reclamation. Yesterday, we were shown how former mining areas have been transformed into beautiful parks. And while diving today, we saw the process and results of PT Timah’s marine reclamation. I believe PT Timah is not just focused on business profits, but is also very environmentally conscious," he said.
"People who say that tin mining damages the environment are probably referring to illegal operations. As for legal ones, PT Timah has proven its strong environmental commitment," he added.
Anggi Siahaan, Department Head of Corporate Communication at PT Timah, stated that the company's environmental programs are not only focused on conservation but also on empowering local communities.
"The environmental programs are carried out sustainably and are integrated with local community empowerment. Coral gardens are expected to accelerate marine rehabilitation while also generating economic benefits for coastal communities and supporting marine tourism," said Anggi.
