He stressed the government’s commitment to building synergy with local communities, regional authorities, academics, businesses and development partners to ensure sustainable social forestry.
“Together, we can make social forestry a sustainable driver of the green economy,” Antoni said in a statement.
He underlined that cross-sector collaboration is essential for preserving ecosystems, maintaining environmental balance and improving community welfare.
“This highlights the importance of stakeholders — from governments to local communities — in realizing the success of social forestry,” he added.
Antoni cited the Mangrove Lovers Farmers Group in Perupuk Village, Lima Puluh Pesisir Subdistrict, Batu Bara District, North Sumatra, as a model of success.
The group operates under a community forest scheme authorized by a 2018 Environment and Forestry Ministry decree.
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It is recognized for sustainable mangrove planting, protection and utilization efforts.
“Their main strength lies in mangrove-based ecotourism, including trekking, culinary tourism, a Japanese Pavilion, archery, fishing spots and mud crab farming,” Antoni said.
Tourism activities have run for about four years, drawing visitors with facilities and photo spots across the mangrove forest.
The group also manages the Kampung Kito Tourism environmental service unit, generating an annual income of about two billion rupiah (USD130,000).
In addition, the mangrove forest in Perupuk serves as a stopover for migratory birds each year.
The area’s rich biodiversity, including rare and endangered species, makes Batu Bara’s eastern coast a key bird conservation site.
Officials said it also has strong potential for birdwatching and specialized ecotourism.
Antoni noted that social forestry can deliver both environmental and economic benefits.
He said the government views it as a practical path to sustainable growth.
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Translator: Nur, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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