Documenting Coral Reef Fish as a Reflection of Marine Ecosystem Health

In commemoration of the International Day for Biological Diversity, Harita Nickel published a book titled “The Beauty of the West Coast Waters of Obi Island – Series I Coral Reef Fish: A Captivating Mosaic of Marine Life.” This publication presents visual documentation and field observations of various coral reef fish species found in the waters surrounding Obi Island, North Maluku.

Compiled by Harita Nickel’s Marine Environment Team, the book highlights observations of dozens of coral reef fish families and features species commonly referenced in marine ecological studies. The publication is expected to serve as an additional reference on marine biodiversity while introducing the rich coastal and marine potential of North Maluku to a broader audience.

This publication is also part of Harita Nickel’s ongoing efforts to support responsible mining practices. At the same time, the book aims to document the condition of the marine environment through a series of future publications focusing on coastal and marine ecosystems around Obi Island.

Download the E-Preview of Series I: Coral Reef Fish
*The complete edition and printed hard copy will be available in limited distribution in future publications

Harita Nickel has completed a Landscape-Level Nature Risk Assessment (LRNA), an approach that evaluates the operational impacts and risks to nature beyond the boundaries of our concession area. This assessment aims to understand how mining activities affect surrounding ecosystems and then identify necessary mitigation measures.

This approach goes beyond industry standards, which typically assess impacts only within business permit boundaries through the Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL). Harita Nickel's LRNA considers environmental risks in four key areas on Obi Island, including potential impacts on forests, rivers, industrial zones, and land used by local communities.

The results of this assessment will be integrated into the company's risk management system and serve as a foundation for discussions with business partners and suppliers. Additionally, the LRNA will play a crucial role in developing a more comprehensive strategy for environmental protection and restoration moving forward.

Download the LNRA summary first version here

Download the LNRA summary second version here

Reclamation & Revegetation

Before commencing mining operations, Harita Nickel prepares a comprehensive Mine Closure and Reclamation Plan, detailing the steps we will take to restore the land to its designated post-mining use once operations cease.
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As of December 2024, a total of 231.51 hectares of reclaimed land have been revegetated, while 1,137 hectares have been allocated for other uses.
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In our revegetation efforts, we prioritize planting native tree species such as Metrosideros vera (Kayu Nani), Calophyllum sp. (Bintangur), Cassia siamea (Johar), Samanea saman (Trembesi), Anisoptera sp. (Mersawa), and Anacardium occidentale (Cashew). We also conduct regular maintenance of the revegetated areas, including fertilization, weeding, and pest and disease control.

Watershed Management (DAS)

Harita Nickel has reforested a total of 5,739 hectares across five watershed areas.
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We actively manage five watershed areas under our license as part of our obligation to rehabilitate these watersheds at a minimum ratio of 1:1 with the areas used for mining. However, we go beyond this requirement by rehabilitating 10% more than what is mandated.

Mangrove Rehabilitation

Since 2021, Harita Nickel has partnered with the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science at Khairun University, local governments, and community members to implement mangrove rehabilitation programs in North Maluku—specifically on Obi, Bacan, and Kayoa Islands.
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By the end of 202, Harita Nickel had planted over 70.000 mangrove seedlings across 23.04 hectares. We continue to monitor their growth, with recorded annual growth rates of 4.77 cm for Rhizophora and 7.79 cm for Avicennia species.

Marine Water Monitoring and Fish Studies

Harita Nickel actively monitors marine water quality in collaboration with independent consultants, university experts, and local communities, including youth groups.
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Since 2010, this monitoring has allowed us to track changes in water quality and ecosystem health, enabling us to take corrective actions when needed. Independent experts have also reported that fishing activities around Kawasi Village remain productive, indicating that key marine habitats continue to support biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities.

Coral Reef Restoration

As a company operating near coastal areas, we are committed to protecting marine ecosystems through concrete actions. Through our marine restoration program, we aim to enhance ecosystem quality in and around our operational areas.
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One of our key focus areas is the restoration of coral reefs around Obi Island, particularly in the waters near Kawasi — including locations such as the New Kawasi Jetty, PT HJF Front Atoll, and Pasir Pasturi. For this purpose, we deploy hollow cube structures that serve as artificial reefs. These cubes are made from concrete mixed with recycled materials, such as nickel slag and fly ash, helping to create new habitats for marine life. These artificial reefs are designed to attract fish for spawning, benefiting both the underwater ecosystem and local fishers.
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As of December 2024, Harita Nickel has deployed 1,871 artificial reef structures on the seafloor around Obi Island.

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