PT Suri Tani Pemuka (STP), a subsidiary of PT Japfa Comfeed Indonesia Tbk (JAPFA), marked its 36th anniversary in a meaningful and impactful way. On September 26, 2023, STP conducted a mangrove planting event, planting 2,000 mangrove seedlings at Cilellang Beach, Cilellang Village, Mallusetasi District, South Sulawesi. This event was more than just a celebration; it was a tangible expression of STP's commitment to supporting the sustainability of coastal environments, in line with the company's ethos, "Act For Sustainable Aquaculture."
This initiative was undertaken with a clear objective: to positively impact both the environment and the community, especially in coastal areas that are often marginalized. Mangrove trees are well-known for their critical role in maintaining the balance of coastal ecosystems. In addition to reducing the risk of coastal erosion, mangroves act as carbon dioxide absorbers, playing a crucial role in combating climate change. Therefore, this activity benefits the environment and contributes to raising community awareness about the importance of preserving coastal areas.
STP did not undertake this initiative alone. The company collaborated with various stakeholders to implement the program. Along with the Cilellang Village officials, the local police, and the military command in Barru Regency, South Sulawesi, STP planted 1,000 mangrove trees and also handed over another 1,000 seedlings to the Environmental and Waste Care Association of Barru Regency and the people of Cilellang Village. This collaborative effort underscores that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all parties, including local communities.
Emiliana Dhian Anggeraheni, Head of Operations Shrimp Hatchery STP, emphasized the company's commitment to reducing carbon emissions in coastal areas. In her statement, Emiliana expressed that this activity serves as a reminder of the importance of running a responsible and sustainable aquaculture industry. "We are committed to maintaining the quality of water resources and supporting various water conservation activities. We hope that our activities will support ecosystem sustainability, especially in areas close to our operational units," Emiliana said, full of hope.
STP's Water Conservation Program is something that has been introduced previously. Since 2022, various initiatives have been carried out at different STP business units. From freshwater fish farming using bio floc ponds and beach cleanups to tree planting in Banyuwangi and cleaning Lake Ranau in Lampung, all these activities have been conducted consistently and with the same spirit. The year 2023 also witnessed the continuation of this program, with the planting of Casuarina trees and hybrid coconuts in Banyuwangi in October, as well as coral reef planting in Bali in November.
STP hopes that the entire series of programs will continue to make a real contribution to preserving water resources and the environment around the company's operational areas. Emiliana concluded with an inspiring message: the importance of community involvement in preserving coastal environments and recognizing the significant benefits of reforestation in reducing carbon emissions.
Through these efforts, STP is demonstrating its dedication to the economic sector and environmental sustainability. This initiative, which involves multiple stakeholders and works closely with the community, is expected to have a long-term positive impact on coastal ecosystems and the lives of the surrounding communities.