Mataram, 21 February 2024 – PT Sumbawa Timur Mining (STM) and the West Nusa Tenggara Environmental and Forestry Agency (DLHK NTB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today. The purpose of this MoU is to support and accompany STM in implementing a forest protection program within the Forest Area Utilization Agreement (PPKH) for the period 2024-2025. Currently, STM is conducting mineral exploration in the Dompu Regency, known as the Hu’u Project.
The MoU aims to support STM in fulfilling its responsibilities as the holder of PPKH (Forest Area Utilization Permit) based on Minister of Environment and Forestry Decree Number: SK.708/MENLHK/SETJEN/PLA.0/6/2023.
Sustainability & External Affairs Manager of STM, Razky Akbar, stated, “We extend our gratitude to DLHK NTB for their support and guidance in this matter. Furthermore, we are committed to diligently implementing this forest protection program, and this MoU signifies the synergy between PT STM and DLHK of the NTB Province in preserving the forest, particularly within STM’s operational area and the NTB Province in general.”
The forestry program covered by the MoU includes forest patrols and surveillance in the STM PPKH area, forestry regulation awareness campaigns, wildfire prevention, the NTB Green program, installation of forestry information boards, as well as assistance and supervision of STM’s forestry programs.
The MoU signing was attended by representatives from DLHK NTB, the Department of Sustainability, and Government Relations at PT STM. The event concluded with the endorsement of the MoU between the Morowali and Toffo Pajo Soromandi (Topaso) Forest Area Strengthening Agency (BPKH).
Forest Management in the STM PPKH Area
STM has been the holder of PPKH since 2010. PPKH is essential as it grants permission to enter forest areas for mineral exploration activities. The goal is to strike a balance between forest conservation and development. “Striving for a balance between forest conservation and operational mineral mining development is one of our primary goals. As a result, we have implemented a series of sustainable forestry management practices with a comprehensive approach since acquiring the Forest Area Utilization Agreement (PPKH),” explained Razky. This forestry management encompasses land opening planning, tree management system implementation, forest seedling care, post-land opening rehabilitation, and reclamation activities.
Over the past 5 years, the post-land opening rehabilitation and reclamation efforts have successfully planted over 13,500 trees. The planning for these activities begins with technical design documents prepared by STM’s forestry team. These plans serve as a guide to ensure rehabilitation objectives are met.
In addition to the forestry management practices, STM conducts routine assessments to mitigate the risk of fallen trees among mature plants within work areas or near supporting facilities. The physical strength of trees is influenced by factors such as age, damage caused by pests and genetics, and weaknesses in internal stem structures. This means that trees may not be as robust as they appear. STM utilizes a resistograph to provide comprehensive information about tree conditions. This tool can detect internal damage without the need to fell or harm the tree. This information enables STM’s forestry team to evaluate and monitor the condition of trees around the camp and operational facilities.
“May today’s signing of the MoU further enhance STM’s efforts and achievements in managing its PPKH area in tandem with the growth of the Hu’u Project,” concluded Razky.
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About PT Sumbawa Timur Mining – PT STM
PT Sumbawa Timur Mining (STM) is a joint venture between Eastern Star Resources Pty Ltd (80%), a 100%-owned subsidiary of Vale SA, and PT Antam Tbk (20%). Established in 1998, STM became the owner of the Hu’u Project 7th generation Contract of Work (CoW) and Geothermal Preliminary & Exploration Survey Assignment in Hu’u District, Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia. The CoW area covers 19,260 hectares in Dompu Regency and Bima Regency. Currently, PT STM is conducting mineral exploration activities to realize its vision in becoming a world class copper mining operation supported by renewable energy.
For further information, please contact Sumbawa Timur Mining Team
