“We can no longer delay restoration efforts. Tesso Nilo is a critical habitat for Sumatran elephants and many other species. If we fail to act now, we risk the future of Sumatra’s ecosystem,”Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said in a statement on Tuesday.
The inauguration ceremony took place in Riau, where Antoni declared the restoration of the conservation area a national priority due to its ecological importance.
The initiative is part of Indonesia’s broader policy to rehabilitate forests impacted by land-use changes, particularly oil palm expansion.
In the first phase of 2026, reforestation will cover 2,574 hectares, with a target of 66,704 hectares by 2028.
Initial planting began on a former oil palm plantation of about 400 hectares, using 2,000 forest seedlings.
Antoni emphasized that the program is grounded in scientific research conducted with universities and research institutions.
“This restoration is built on a strong scientific foundation. We ensure the species planted provide food and shelter for wildlife, especially Sumatran elephants,” he explained.
The government is also reinforcing governance measures, including law enforcement, restorative justice, community relocation, and land status improvements to secure clean and clear conservation areas.
Antoni stressed that success depends on collaboration across government, sectors, and communities.
“Reforestation is not merely about planting trees. It is a shared commitment to restore nature’s balance and preserve sustainable forests for future generations,” he said.
Translator: Prisca Triferna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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