Indonesia Enhances Forest Management for Economic Growth and Conservation

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry in Indonesia is actively reinforcing forest management units to bolster the economy and safeguard forest areas from various threats, including logging and fires.

The acting Director-General of Sustainable Forest Management, Agus Justianto, emphasized the formation of forest management units to enhance forest governance and institutional order in Indonesia. During a working visit to Pulang Pisau district in Central Kalimantan, Justianto highlighted the vital role of these units in sustainable forest management.

In Central Kalimantan, 32 forest management units have been established in both production and protected forest areas, contributing to long-term forest planning. The Gerbang Barito Sembilan forest management group, for instance, plays a crucial role in managing peatlands and implementing forest fire control programs.

“Justianto mentioned that the community-based forest management unit also engages in the production of non-wood products, such as purun (Lepironia articulata) for straws. Additionally, they create compost blocks made from leaves, providing nutrients essential for plant growth and promoting soil fertility without the use of plastic or grow bags.

Furthermore, the forest management unit in Tuwung village, Pulang Pisau district, actively farms kelulut (stingless bee) honey. The village produces 15 liters of kelulut honey per month, priced at Rp25 thousand (approximately US$1.59) per 100 milliliters, and markets the honey in various regions.

These initiatives not only contribute to economic growth but also emphasize sustainable practices and the conservation of forest resources. The Ministry continues to support and promote community-based forest management units as part of its comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship.