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Merauke, 29 September 2025 – PT Bio Inti Agrindo (PT BIA), in collaboration with Musamus University (Unmus), has reaffirmed its strong commitment to environmental conservation by conducting a mangrove planting activity along the coastal area of Payum Beach, Merauke. This marks the third planting initiative since 2024, following a similar event held on 28 May 2025.

In this latest effort, 1,000 mangrove seedlings were planted, adding to the 1,000 trees previously planted. A total of 2,000 mangrove trees have now been successfully planted between 2024 and 2025 as part of a long-term coastal conservation program.

Payum Beach is located on an open coastline facing the Arafura Sea, characterized by strong waves, powerful currents, and gently sloping sandy shores, making it highly vulnerable to abrasion and erosion. Mangrove roots embedded in underwater sediment absorb nutrients and organic matter from tidal flows, enriching the soil and enabling long-term blue carbon storage helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

This initiative involved multi-stakeholder collaboration, including the Papua Natural Resources Conservation Center (BBKSDA) through KSDA Region I Merauke, the South Papua Environmental and Forestry Office (DLHKP), the Marine and Fisheries Office, the Tourism Office, the Investment and One-Stop Services Office (DPMPTSP), BNI Merauke Branch, as well as residents of Payum Village and Unmus students. Planting was carried out directly by participants as a form of active engagement and shared responsibility for their environment.

PT BIA President Director, Mr. Kong Byoung Sun, emphasized that this activity is a key part of the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

“This is not merely an environmental initiative, but a practical ESG effort that combines community development with nature conservation,” said Mr. Kong Byoung Sun.

Mangrove conservation in the Payum area, which is located near river estuaries and shallow waters, aims to protect coastal ecosystems while supporting the livelihoods of local communities. Mangroves serve as nursery grounds and shelter for fish and shrimp, thereby enhancing the catch of traditional fishermen who rely on coastal resources around Payum Beach.

The mangrove planting activity at Payum Beach stands as a clear example of multi-stakeholder collaboration in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development in South Papua.