PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE) Area Lahendong, North Sulawesi, is strengthening biodiversity conservation efforts through the protection of Yaki (Macaca nigra) and the development of sugar palm agroforestry, combining environmental preservation with the community’s economic potential.

Yaki are monkeys endemic to Sulawesi, classified as Critically Endangered (CR) and included among protected wildlife. Based on surveys and field observations, nine Yaki individuals were recorded and subsequently entered the habituation stage in Hutan Rurukan before being released into the wild.

Yaki protection efforts are also carried out through the Lestari Manimpang program: Dengan ‘Mapalus’ Torang Lestarikan dan Lindungi Monyet Yaki. The program recorded five Yaki individuals in an area of approximately 6.94 hectares.

In addition to fauna conservation, PGE Area Lahendong is implementing SEGARIS PELANGI (Strategi Pengembangan Industri Gula Aren Berbasis Agroforestri dan Pemanfaatan Langsung Panas Bumi). This program develops sugar palm using an agroforestry approach while maintaining the forest’s natural canopy and vegetation.

Based on the Environmental Management Performance Summary Document (DRKPL), the program has recorded 789 sugar palm plants across an area of 6.7 hectares.

General Manager of PGE Area Lahendong Yanuaris Dwi Cahyono said that conservation in operational areas needs to be adapted to ecosystem characteristics while involving the community and stakeholders.

“Conservation in the Lahendong area is carried out by considering environmental conditions and the potential surrounding our operational area. We continue to encourage collaboration with various parties so that efforts to protect ecosystems and wildlife can proceed sustainably while also providing benefits for surrounding communities,” said Yanuaris.

Meanwhile, PGE President Director Ahmad Yani emphasized that geothermal energy development needs to go hand in hand with environmental protection and community empowerment.

Through these various programs, PGE Area Lahendong integrates biodiversity protection, community involvement, and the development of local economic potential into activities in its operational area. (Risma)