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<h2 class="text-lg font-semibold">Head Office</h2>
<p class="text-sm font-light">Gedung Bank Panin, Jalan Jenderal Sudirman Kav. 1, Jakarta Pusat, 10270.<br><br><strong>Phone</strong>: +62-21 5722924<br><strong>Fax</strong>: 021 - 72789908<br><br></p>
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<h2 class="text-lg font-semibold">Site Obi</h2>
<p class="text-sm font-light">Desa Kawasi, Kecamatan Obi, Kabupaten Halmahera Selatan, Maluku Utara.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island is one of the largest islands in South Halmahera, North Maluku, Indonesia. In recent years, the island has gained national and international recognition as one of Indonesia's key nickel-producing regions. However, Obi Island's appeal extends far beyond its abundant mineral resources. Its pristine natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant coastal communities make it a fascinating destination with far more to offer than its mining industry alone.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">For many people, Obi Island is primarily associated with nickel mining and industrial development. Yet, long before becoming an important hub for Indonesia's downstream nickel industry, the island was home to communities with deep-rooted traditions and strong local wisdom. From lush tropical forests and biodiverse marine ecosystems to coastal villages and rolling hills, Obi Island offers remarkable natural and cultural richness waiting to be explored.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Where Is Obi Island?</h2>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island is located in the southern part of South Halmahera Regency, North Maluku Province. It is the largest island within the Obi Islands archipelago, a group of islands situated in the southern region of North Maluku. Geographically, the island lies between the Molucca Sea and the Seram Sea, giving it a strategic location along eastern Indonesia's maritime routes.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Administratively, Obi Island covers approximately 2,542 square kilometers and has a <a href="https://www.kompas.id/artikel/menjejakkan-kaki-di-obi-surga-nikel-di-maluku-utara">population</a> of 52,588. The island is divided into five districts and 34 villages: Obi, South Obi, West Obi, East Obi, and North Obi. Some of the best-known villages include Kawasi, Soligi, Buton, Anggai, Sambiki, Laiwui, Jikotamo, Air Mangga, and Ake Gula.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Each village has its own unique characteristics, shaped by its local economy, cultural traditions, and natural environment. Some communities are located along the coast, where fishing remains the primary livelihood, while others have developed around plantations, trade, and industrial activities.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Kawasi Village, for example, has experienced rapid growth alongside the <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/permukiman-baru-kawasi-jadi-model-hunian-inklusif-dan-berkelanjutan-di-maluku-utara">expansion</a> of industrial activities on the island. Meanwhile, villages such as Soligi and Buton continue to preserve the atmosphere of traditional coastal communities, where daily life remains closely connected to the sea and long standing local customs.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">This diversity of villages contributes to Obi Island's vibrant social landscape, with each community offering its own stories, traditions, and economic potential.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Life on Obi Island&nbsp;</h2>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">The people of Obi Island have long lived in harmony with their natural surroundings. Most residents earn their livelihoods through farming, plantations, fishing, trading, as well as employment in the service and industrial sectors.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">As an island community, marine resources remain one of the region's primary sources of income. Fish, shrimp, crabs, and other seafood products are important commodities that supply local markets while also supporting trade throughout North Maluku.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Agriculture and plantation farming also play a significant role in the local economy. Coconut, nutmeg, cloves, and other productive crops have been cultivated for generations, forming the economic backbone of many communities long before the development of the island's mineral processing industry.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island is also home to people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Its population includes indigenous communities as well as ethnic groups such as Tobelo-Galela, Ternate, Tidore, Buton, Bugis, and Javanese. This cultural diversity has created a dynamic and inclusive society where the spirit of gotong royong mutual cooperation and community solidarity continues to thrive.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Preserving the Cultural Heritage of Obi Island&nbsp;</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img class="n1ed--selected" style="width: 1280px; height: auto;" src="https://api.tbpnickel.com/storage/images/Media/Liputan/Kabar%20Obi/Lainnya/12154e2d-e521-4c65-9671-f0e23fa7fe8a.jpg" alt="Traditional Ngibi Dance, the cultural Heritage of Obi Island" width="3883" height="2594"></p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Despite its rapid development, the people of Obi Island continue to preserve traditions that have been passed down through generations. Traditional ceremonies, local performing arts, and community gatherings remain an integral part of life in many villages. Values such as family, mutual cooperation, and social solidarity continue to shape everyday life across the island.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Several traditional art forms are still actively preserved as part of Obi Island's rich cultural heritage. One of them is <a href="https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8527416/mengenal-ngibi-tradisi-leluhur-yang-masih-hidup-di-halmahera-selatan">Ngibi</a>, a traditional performance originating from Soligi Village, which is commonly showcased during customary ceremonies and community celebrations. Another well-known cultural tradition is the <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/melalui-festival-seni-tari-cakalele-harita-nickel-lestarikan-tradisi-di-desa-kawasi">Cakalele Dance</a>, a traditional war dance from Maluku and North Maluku that is still performed during cultural events and official welcoming ceremonies. The dance symbolizes courage, honor, and deep respect for local traditions and ancestral heritage.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island is also home to several sites of historical and cultural significance. <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/benteng-de-brill-warisan-budaya-yang-terus-dijaga-di-kawasan-industri-obi">Fort De Brill</a>, a relic from the colonial era, stands as an important reminder of the island's historical journey. Meanwhile, <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/merawat-warisan-budaya-harmoni-sejarah-dan-kemajuan-industri-di-pulau-obi">Lake Karo</a> is valued not only for its scenic beauty but also for its role as an essential freshwater source for local communities and as part of Obi Island's historical development.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Beyond its performing arts and historical landmarks, Obi Island's cultural richness is reflected in its local languages, traditional cuisine, community deliberation practices, and social customs that continue to be observed today. Together, these cultural traditions form an essential part of Obi Island's identity while contributing to the broader cultural heritage of North Maluku.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">The Natural Beauty of Obi Island</h2>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">In addition to its growing industrial significance, Obi Island is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Its coastline stretches along crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beaches that showcase the island's tropical charm. On clear evenings, sunsets over Obi Island paint the sky in vibrant shades of orange and gold, creating one of the island's most captivating natural attractions.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island's tropical forests also provide habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna native to eastern Indonesia. Along the coast, extensive <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/mengenal-mangrove-fungsi-manfaat-dan-upaya-pelestariannya-di-pulau-obi">mangrove</a> ecosystems play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance while serving as important breeding grounds for numerous marine species.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">The island also offers growing opportunities for marine tourism, including fishing, snorkeling, and enjoying its scenic coastal landscapes, making Obi Island an increasingly attractive destination for nature enthusiasts.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Abundant Natural Resources&nbsp;</h2>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island is endowed with abundant natural resources. In addition to its rich fisheries and plantation commodities, the island possesses substantial mineral reserves that have made it one of Indonesia's strategically important regions for industrial development.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">These natural resources have created significant economic opportunities, both through traditional primary sectors and through the development of downstream industries that add value to locally produced commodities.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">At the same time, other sectors—including fisheries, agriculture, and community-based microenterprises continue to play an essential role in supporting the livelihoods and economic resilience of the people of Obi Island.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island as a Major Nickel-Producing Region</h2>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">One of the primary reasons Obi Island has gained widespread recognition is its substantial nickel reserves, with total nickel ore resources and reserves estimated at 310.8 million wet metric tons (WMT). Together with several other mining regions in Sulawesi and North Maluku, Obi Island has become one of the key contributors to Indonesia's nickel industry.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">The island's abundant <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/mengapa-nikel-indonesia-banyak-ditemukan-di-sulawesi-dan-maluku-utara-ini-penjelasannya">nickel deposits</a> are the result of geological processes that have taken place over millions of years. Combined with a tropical climate and high rainfall, these natural conditions have formed extensive laterite nickel deposits, making Obi Island one of Indonesia's most important mineral-rich regions.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">The island's significant nickel resources have also supported the development of an integrated nickel processing industry. On Obi Island, Harita Nickel operates an integrated mining and processing complex as part of Indonesia's downstream mineral development strategy, which aims to increase the value of the country's mineral resources through domestic processing.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Through its processing facilities on Obi Island, nickel ore is not only mined but also refined into a range of value-added products, including ferronickel (FeNi) for the stainless steel industry, as well as Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP), nickel sulfate, and cobalt sulfate essential raw materials for the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Beyond strengthening Indonesia's downstream mineral industry, these operations contribute to regional economic growth by creating employment opportunities, supporting infrastructure development, enhancing the capabilities of the local workforce, and fostering collaboration with communities surrounding the company's operational areas.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Supported by its abundant natural resources and sustainable industrial development, Obi Island is now recognized not only as one of Indonesia's leading nickel-producing regions but also as an important contributor to the global energy transition through the supply of critical raw materials for electric vehicle batteries.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Conclusion</h2>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">Obi Island demonstrates how abundant natural resources can coexist with vibrant communities, cultural preservation, and regional development. With its unique combination of natural wealth, cultural diversity, and expanding economic opportunities, the island continues to evolve as one of Indonesia's most strategically important regions.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: justify;">The combination of rich natural resources, diverse cultural heritage, and sustainable industrial development has positioned Obi Island as a place of growing significance not only for North Maluku, but also for Indonesia's broader economic development and its role in supporting the global transition toward cleaner energy.</p>
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Getting to Know Obi Island: A North Maluku Island Rich in Natural Beauty, Culture, and Nickel Resources

<p dir="ltr">Mangroves are one of the coastal ecosystems whose roles often go unnoticed, even though their impact is significant for both the environment and the communities living nearby. In Indonesia, mangrove forests grow across many regions, including Obi Island, which is characterized by coastal landscapes and rich biodiversity.</p>
<p dir="ltr">On Obi Island, mangrove ecosystems can be found along both the southern and northern coasts, with notable presence in<a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/komitmen-lestarikan-lingkungan-harita-nickel-tanam-mangrove-di-desa-soligi-3"> Soligi Village</a>, Anggai Village, and West Madapolo Village. These areas have become focal points for conservation efforts through the planting of endemic North Maluku mangrove seedlings.</p>
<p dir="ltr">With many settlements located directly along the coastline, mangroves on Obi Island are not merely an environmental feature, they are an integral part of daily life for coastal communities.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">What Are Mangroves?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Mangroves are plants that grow in coastal areas where land and sea meet. They are able to survive in extreme conditions, such as high salinity, muddy soils, and low oxygen levels conditions in which most other plants cannot thrive.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) describes mangroves as a unique ecosystem with high adaptability and complex ecological functions.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Some key characteristics of mangroves include:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Having aerial roots (pneumatophores) that emerge above the soil surface</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Growing in tidal areas</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Tolerating high levels of salinity</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr">Functions and Benefits of Mangroves on Obi Island</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Protecting Coastlines as a Natural Greenbelt</h3>
<p dir="ltr">One of the most visible functions of mangroves is protecting coastlines from abrasion and wave impact. Their strong root systems act like natural anchors, preventing soil erosion while reducing wave energy before it reaches the land.</p>
<p dir="ltr">On Obi Island, where most economic activities and settlements are located along the coast, this function is essential for maintaining long-term coastal stability.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. Serving as Habitat for Marine Life<br><br></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Beyond their physical role in protecting coastlines, mangroves also play an ecological role as habitats and breeding grounds for various species of fish, crabs, and other marine organisms. This ecosystem contributes to the sustainability of local fisheries.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">3. Absorbing Large Amounts of Carbon (Blue Carbon)</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Mangroves are known as one of the most effective carbon-absorbing ecosystems in the world.</p>
<p dir="ltr">According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), mangroves can store significant amounts of carbon, particularly in soil sediments. This capability makes them part of the blue carbon ecosystem, which plays an important role in climate change mitigation.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Mangrove conservation therefore contributes not only to local environmental health but also to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">4. Maintaining Coastal Water Quality</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Mangroves also function as natural filters. Sediments and pollutants carried by currents are trapped before reaching the open sea, helping maintain better water quality in mangrove areas compared to coastal regions without vegetation cover.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Read More: <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/en/the-state-of-obi-island-waters-and-the-harita-nickels-environmental-management">The State of Obi Island Waters and the Harita Nickel’s Environmental Management</a></h3>
<h2 dir="ltr">Mangrove Conservation Efforts on Obi Island</h2>
<p><img src="https://api.tbpnickel.com/storage/images/Media/Liputan/Kabar%20Obi/Lainnya/C1_071224_Peliputan_CSR_Sosialisasi_Mangrove_Soligi_2024__205.JPG_compressed.JPEG" alt="" width="1280" height="853"></p>
<p dir="ltr">Mangrove conservation is essential for sustaining coastal ecosystems. Efforts include rehabilitation, replanting, and sustainable environmental management.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In Indonesia, mangrove rehabilitation is also part of the national agenda promoted by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.</p>
<p dir="ltr">On Obi Island, conservation efforts are focused in Soligi Village, Anggai Village, and West Madapolo Village. These efforts are not only driven by formal programs but also by strong local community initiatives.</p>
<p dir="ltr">One example is community groups such as the <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/kelompok-tongke-inisiatif-pelestarian-lingkungan-berbasis-masyarakat">Tongke Group</a> in Soligi Village, which since 2019 has independently protected and managed mangrove forests in their coastal area.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This group emerged from community awareness of the importance of mangroves for both the environment and livelihoods. With approximately 23 hectares of mangrove forest in the Soligi area, the presence of this community plays a crucial role in maintaining the sustainability of coastal ecosystems.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Collaborative Mangrove Conservation on Obi Island</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Over time, mangrove conservation efforts on Obi Island have been strengthened through collaboration between communities and various stakeholders.</p>
<p dir="ltr">As part of its operational area, Harita Nickel contributes through a community-based approach.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This collaboration includes:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/hari-mangrove-sedunia-harita-nickel-ajak-siswa-tanam-mangrove-di-pesisir-desa-soligi">Mangrove seedling planting activities</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Mentoring community groups such as the Tongke Group</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Training on nursery development and mangrove planting techniques</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Ongoing ecosystem monitoring and evaluation</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">This approach is designed to ensure that communities are not only participants but also capable of independently managing and sustaining mangrove ecosystems in the future.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Protecting Mangroves Means Protecting Life</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Mangroves are vital ecosystems with multiple functions, from protecting coastlines as natural greenbelts to absorbing large amounts of carbon as part of the blue carbon ecosystem.</p>
<p dir="ltr">On Obi Island, protecting mangroves means protecting livelihoods. Their presence not only maintains environmental balance but also supports the daily lives of coastal communities. Through conservation efforts involving local communities and support from various stakeholders, including Harita Nickel, mangroves are expected to continue thriving and providing benefits for future generations.</p>
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Understanding Mangroves: Functions, Benefits, and Conservation Efforts on Obi Island

<p dir="ltr">Nickel is one of the most important minerals used across various industries, ranging from stainless steel production to electric vehicle (EV) battery components. Before it can be widely utilized, nickel must undergo complex processing to extract this high-value metal from its ore.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In this article, we will explore how nickel is processed using two main technologies: RKEF (Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace) and HPAL (High Pressure Acid Leaching). Each method has a different approach, produces different end products, and operates in different processing facilities, namely smelters and refineries.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Understanding Processing Facilities: Smelter vs. Refinery</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Before discussing the technologies, there are two key terms in nickel processing that must be understood:</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Smelter</h3>
<p dir="ltr">A smelter is a mineral processing facility that uses a pyrometallurgical approach, meaning it relies on high-temperature heating and melting processes. Its main objective is to produce molten metal products such as Nickel Pig Iron (NPI) or Ferronickel (FeNi).</p>
<p dir="ltr">Key characteristics of a smelter:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Uses extremely high temperatures (up to &gt;1,300°C)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Produces alloyed metals (ferroalloys)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Commonly serves the stainless steel industry</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. Refinery</h3>
<p dir="ltr">A refinery is a mineral processing facility that uses a hydrometallurgical approach, meaning it utilizes water-based solutions as the primary medium to extract and purify metals. The final products are typically high-purity nickel chemical compounds such as Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP) or Nickel Sulfate (NiSO₄).</p>
<p dir="ltr">Key characteristics of a refinery:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Uses acid, pressure, and controlled temperatures</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Does not produce molten metal</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Commonly serves the battery and chemical industries</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr">RKEF Technology: Processing Nickel Ore in a Smelter</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">What is RKEF?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">RKEF (Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace) is one of the primary methods used in smelters to process laterite nickel ore, particularly saprolite ore, which contains relatively high nickel content. This method falls under pyrometallurgy, meaning it heavily depends on intense heat to transform raw ore into metal products.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Main Stages of the RKEF Process</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The processing stages inside a smelter include:</p>
<ol>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Ore Separation</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p style="padding-left: 40px;">Nickel ore larger than 2 cm is separated at the initial stage.</p>
<ol>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Drying</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The ore is dried in a rotary dryer at temperatures between 200–300°C. This reduces its moisture content from around 40% to approximately 20%.</p>
<ol start="3">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Calcination</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The ore is further heated in a rotary kiln at temperatures of 700–750°C to remove unwanted elements.</p>
<ol start="4">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Smelting</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The heated ore is then melted in an electric furnace at around 1,600°C to separate ferronickel from impurities.</p>
<ol start="5">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Molding</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The molten ferronickel is cast into ingots, ready to be shipped to the steel industry.</p>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The final products of this process are typically ferroalloys such as Ferronickel (FeNi) or Nickel Pig Iron (NPI), which are used as raw materials in metallurgical industries, particularly stainless steel production.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Smelters using RKEF technology generally operate multiple large production lines continuously to achieve stable and high annual output. Several large-scale RKEF facilities in Indonesia produce thousands of tons of FeNi annually.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Read also: <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/apa-itu-feronikel-produk-di-balik-kuatnya-stainless-steel">What Is Ferronickel? The Product Behind the Strength of Stainless Steel!</a></h3>
<h2 dir="ltr">HPAL Technology: Processing Nickel Ore in a Refinery</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">What is HPAL?</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Unlike RKEF, HPAL (High Pressure Acid Leaching) uses an entirely different approach and operates in a refinery. HPAL is a hydrometallurgical method designed to process limonite-type laterite nickel ore, which typically has lower nickel content but contains valuable elements such as cobalt.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Main Stages of the HPAL Process</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Processing in a refinery involves the following stages:</p>
<ol>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Ore Washing</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">Limonite nickel ore is washed and separated from rocks and impurities, forming a slurry.</p>
<ol start="2">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Thickening Process</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The slurry is thickened until its solid content reaches approximately 45%.</p>
<ol start="3">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Leaching</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The slurry is pumped through pipelines into high-pressure vessels called autoclaves. Inside the autoclave, it is treated with concentrated sulfuric acid at temperatures up to 250°C and pressures of around 50 bar—comparable to the pressure found at a depth of 500 meters underwater. Agitators inside the autoclave continuously mix the material, allowing nickel to dissolve into the acid while other materials settle as residue.</p>
<ol start="4">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Separation</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The nickel-rich solution is separated from the slurry residue through seven Counter Current Decantation (CCD) tanks.</p>
<ol start="5">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Purification</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr" style="padding-left: 40px;">The nickel solution is further processed to produce a mixture of nickel and cobalt known as Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP), after removing aluminum and iron (FeAl removal process).</p>
<p dir="ltr">MHP can be further refined into nickel sulfate and cobalt sulfate. Most recently, Harita Nickel has also produced <a href="https://tbpnickel.com/id/tonggak-baru-hilirisasi-harita-nickel-produksi-kobalt-elektrolitik">electrolytic cobalt </a>using Electro Winning technology. These products have various applications, including raw materials for battery manufacturing, electronics, and specialty materials requiring high-purity cobalt.</p>
<p dir="ltr">HPAL technology is known for its higher operational complexity compared to RKEF, as it requires precise control of pressure, temperature, and chemical conditions. However, it enables greater value extraction from lower-grade limonite ore and supports the processing of more complex materials.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Meeting Global Demand from Obi Island</h2>
<p dir="ltr">RKEF and HPAL are two distinct nickel ore processing technologies in terms of process, facilities, and final products. RKEF processes saprolite ore in smelters to produce ferroalloys such as FeNi or NPI, while HPAL processes limonite ore in refineries to extract high-purity nickel chemical compounds such as MHP or NiSO₄.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A clear understanding of how these technologies work explains how similar-looking nickel ores at the mine site can result in very different products at processing facilities.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The downstream industrial model on Obi Island demonstrates how RKEF and HPAL can operate side by side within a single industrial ecosystem. Harita Nickel utilizes RKEF to process saprolite ore into ferronickel for the stainless steel industry, and HPAL to process limonite ore into MHP, nickel sulfate, cobalt sulfate, and electrolytic cobalt as raw materials for EV batteries.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This integrated approach addresses two global demands simultaneously: stainless steel demand (through RKEF) and EV battery material demand (through HPAL).</p>
<p dir="ltr">In other words, Harita Nickel does not merely extract nickel it connects Indonesia to the global supply chain of strategic industries, creating broader added value for the national economy.</p>

Understanding RKEF and HPAL Technologies in Nickel Processing

Strengthening ESG Integration Across the Value Chain

<p>Harita Nickel, through its two subsidiaries, PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk and PT Gane Permai Sentosa, successfully achieved the Company Performance Rating Assessment Program (Proper) award for the period 2023-2024 with a Blue predicate from the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Indonesia. This award recognized the company's commitment in implementing sustainable environmental management.</p>
<p>The award was presented at the Proper 2024 Environmental Award held at Sasono Langen Budoyo, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta, on Monday (24/2/2025).&nbsp;
</p>
<p>Harita Nickel's Health and Safety Environment Director, Tonny Gultom, said Harita Nickel as an integrated nickel mining and processing technology company, always prioritizes sustainable principles in all aspects of its operations on Obi Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku. This commitment aims to provide added value for the company and sustainability for the surrounding environment.</p><p><img alt="Kubu hijau" src="https://api.tbpnickel.com/storage/images/old/images/Kubu Hijau.jpg"><br></p><figcaption>Dobsonia viridis (Kubu Hijau) observed during Flora & Fauna monitoring in Harita Nickel's operational area.</figcaption>
<p>Tonny mentioned a number of Harita Nickel's achievements in environmental management, including its successful post-mining reclamation program covering ± 231.53 hectares by 2024. Some of the former mining land, he added, is currently covered with plants and inhabited by various types of endemic animals from North Maluku.&nbsp;
</p>
<p>Based on the results of biodiversity monitoring conducted by an independent third party, it was found that the flora and fauna ecosystem in the operational area of Harita Nickel remains well-preserved. From the 2024 monitoring results, a total of 10 plant species were recorded as being used in the reclamation area, and 8 plant species were identified in the Obi Industrial Area, consisting of secondary forests and shrubs, including Red Jabon, Kayu Putih, Bintangur, and Mahogany.
</p>
<p>Meanwhile, for wildlife species classified within the taxa of mammals, bird populations, herpetofauna, and insects show a stable trend. This includes several endemic species unique to the Maluku Islands, such as the Green Dobson (<em>Dobsonia viridis</em>) and the Halmahera Cicadabird (<em>Lalage aurea</em>).
</p>
<p>Under the insect category, the study recorded 28 dragonfly species from 8 families and 46 butterfly species from 4 families. The presence of dragonflies and butterflies indicates that the quality of the environment is maintained.
</p>
<p>"We have also succeeded in revitalizing the nursery this year, by increasing the capacity of our land area for nurseries equipped with modern facilities,” he added. The nursery facility, named Loji Central Nursery, has an area of ± 2.8 hectares and a capacity of ± 400,000 seedlings. This increase in nursery capacity is expected to meet the growing demand for seedlings to support the post-mining reclamation program.
</p><p><img alt="Kapasan halmahera" src="https://api.tbpnickel.com/storage/images/old/images/Kapasan Halmahera.jpg"><br></p>

<figcaption>Lalage aurea (Kapasan Halmahera), one of the bird species observed during Flora and Fauna monitoring in Harita Nickel's operational area on Obi Island.</figcaption>
<p><br>Meanwhile, Head of Mining Engineering of PT Gane Permai Sentosa, Ngainur Rofiek, said that this year's Blue Proper award from the Ministry of Environment is the second time for the company after previously receiving the same predicate for the 2021-2022 period. According to him, the success in maintaining this achievement shows the company's consistency in implementing Good Mining Practices, including technical aspects, work safety and environmental management.&nbsp;
</p>
<p>“Of course we will not stop here. This achievement is a motivation for us to further improve the company's performance. In the future, it is not limited to fulfilling regulations, but also making sustainable innovations,” he concluded.&nbsp;
</p>
<p>Proper 2024 was participated by 4,495 companies from various sectors. As a result of the performance evaluation, the level of company compliance during the 2023-2024 period amounted to 2,961 compliant companies, 1,329 non-compliant companies, and 205 companies not yet operating. In the non-compliant group, there are 16 companies with black status –the lowest level for companies that are considered to have committed environmental damage. Whereas in Proper 2023 there were no black status companies, then this became a special concern for the government to make Proper mandatory starting in 2025.&nbsp;
</p>
<p>Responsible environmental management practices and followed by sustainable innovations in every aspect of its operations, are a tangible manifestation of Harita Nickel's commitment as a downstream mandate holder in order to provide added value for the environment, society and the nation.
</p>

Harita Nickel Achieved Blue Proper Award from the Ministry of Environment

<p>Harita Nickel has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility by implementing best practices throughout its operations on Obi Island. As part of this commitment, the company's Health, Safety & Environment Department partnered with the Disaster Risk Reduction Center of Universitas Indonesia (DRRC UI) to organize the&nbsp;<em>Kawasi Siaga Bencana</em>&nbsp;(Kawasi Disaster Preparedness) program.</p>
<p>The program took place over four days, from December 10–13, 2024, in the newly developed settlement of Kawasi Village. Participants included residents, school students, village officials, and other stakeholders. The event provided training on disaster and earthquake preparedness, including basic firefighting techniques and First Aid (P3K). The program concluded with a tsunami emergency response and evacuation simulation.
</p>
<p>Supriyanto Suwarno, Occupational Health and Safety Manager at Harita Nickel, explained that the disaster preparedness training was conducted as a precautionary measure against potential disasters in the company’s operational area. According to a risk assessment conducted by DRRC UI, Kawasi Village is vulnerable to various natural hazards, including earthquakes, strong winds, high waves, floods, and tsunamis.
</p>
<p>“This&nbsp;<em>Kawasi Siaga Bencana</em>&nbsp;activity is part of Harita Nickel's commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. It is an extension of our efforts in Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental Protection (K3LH), which also prioritize community safety around our operational areas,” Suwarno noted.
</p>
<p>The program was warmly welcomed by Kawasi residents. Reinhar Siar, Chairperson of Kawasi Village’s Consultative Body (BPD), expressed gratitude for Harita Nickel’s initiative, stating that it greatly supported government efforts to raise awareness about disaster preparedness and management.
</p>
<p>“Residents are very pleased to have this opportunity because it makes us more vigilant about potential disasters and teaches us what to do. This training is not just for natural disasters but also for other emergencies that could occur at any time,” said Siar, thanking Harita Nickel and Universitas Indonesia for organizing the event.
</p>
<p>The&nbsp;<em>Kawasi Siaga Bencana</em>&nbsp;program involved Harita Nickel’s Emergency Response Team (ERT), which supported the hands-on training sessions and tsunami evacuation simulation. Additionally, medical teams from both the company and local government, Harita Nickel’s Community Relations team, and personnel from the TNI/Polri (Indonesian Armed Forces and Police) participated in the event.
</p>
<p>Devi Partina Wardani, coordinator of DRRC UI, emphasized the importance of involving communities and stakeholders in disaster response efforts to minimize casualties during emergencies. “Through theoretical and practical training, as well as simulations, we aim to provide participants with a clear understanding of the necessary steps to take during disasters,” she explained.
</p>
<p>The four-day program demonstrated excellent coordination among the participating parties, according to the DRRC UI team. The participants’ enthusiasm was equally notable, as they actively engaged in every session from start to finish.
</p>
<p>“We highly appreciate Harita Nickel’s initiative in organizing this event. Hopefully, it serves as a constant reminder for the community, ensuring they know what to do when disaster strikes,” Wardani concluded.
</p>

Harita Nickel Collaborates with DRRC UI to Launch "Kawasi Disaster Preparedness" Program

<p>Harita Nickel’s mining and nickel ore processing operations are deeply committed to environmental safety, particularly in ensuring that the water discharged from mining areas poses no threat to the surrounding ecosystems. Given that the company’s operational areas border vital aquatic zones, which are home to diverse marine life and crucial to the livelihoods of local fishermen, this commitment takes on added urgency.</p>
<p>To protect the quality of water leaving the mine, the company has created 52 settling ponds across two mining licenses. Thirty-five of these ponds are managed by PT Trimegah Bangun Persada, and the other seventeen by PT Gane Permai Sentosa. The largest pond, Tuguraci 2, has a capacity of 924,000 cubic meters and covers an area of 43 hectares.
</p>
<p>Muhamad Riftadi Hidayat, a Senior Mine Hydrology Engineer at PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk, highlights the importance of settling ponds in capturing sediment from soil, rock, and other materials eroded by mining. If not managed, these particles could pollute the environment. “These ponds are essential for keeping the water clean and safe before it's released back into the waterways,” he says.
</p>
<p>The settling ponds are carefully designed to allow water to effectively filter out sediment before it is returned to its natural flow. This process ensures that the discharged water is clear and meets strict government quality standards.
</p>
<p>At Harita Nickel, managing the settling ponds involves monitoring water quality parameters like pH and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). Dedicated teams from various business units perform daily checks to ensure they meet strict environmental standards.
</p><p><img alt="C1 settling pond bunaken 2 50 11zon" src="https://api.tbpnickel.com/storage/images/old/images/C1_Settling Pond Bunaken 2_50_11zon.jpg"><br></p>
<p>Indra Maizar, Environmental Superintendent at PT Halmahera Persada Lygend, explains the importance of regular maintenance. The company regularly dredges the ponds when sediment builds up to 70 percent of their capacity. “When sediment reaches 80 percent, we use heavy machinery to deepen the pond,” Indra says.
</p>
<p>Dredging prevents sediment buildup from reducing capacity and keeps the water clear before it flows into places like the Todoku River. “Pond Tuguraci 2 can handle water flow rates of 10,000 to 50,000 cubic meters per hour, even during heavy rain,” he adds. The pond also has a retention time of 10 to 15 hours, which helps ensure that upstream water is clear before being released.
</p>
<p>“These ponds clearly show the company’s commitment to protecting the environment around the mine,” Indra says. “They also reflect one of Harita Nickel’s core values: teamwork. All business units will keep working toward sustainability and environmental conservation in our operational areas.”
</p>

Collaborating for a Greener Future: Harita Nickel's Water Management Initiative

<p>Operating along the coastal stretch of Obi Island in North Maluku, Harita Nickel has been recognized with a Green Rating by CNBC Indonesia, a testament to the company's long-term commitment to preserving both marine and terrestrial ecosystems surrounding its nickel mining operations.</p>
<p>Since 2010, Harita Nickel has routinely monitored water quality near Kawasi Village, which borders the company’s industrial zone. Independent studies conducted by the Bogor Agricultural Institute and Khairun University in Ternate confirm that seawater in the area remains healthy and capable of sustaining marine life. “Obi waters are fertile due to high chlorophyll content. Marine productivity remains intact,” said Prof. Dr. M. Janib Achmad of Khairun University. Similarly, Prof. Dr. Inneke Rumengan of Sam Ratulangi University observed stable marine biodiversity from 2015 through 2021.
</p>
<p>To ensure oceanic health, Harita Nickel has invested in an array of monitoring technologies including survey vessels, CTD sensors, multiparameter gauges, and remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), essential tools for accessing aquatic zones beyond the reach of divers. The company has also developed artificial coral reefs made from nickel slag, aimed at enhancing fish populations and bolstering the livelihoods of local fishermen.
</p>
<p><img alt="Monitoring laut obi" src="https://api.tbpnickel.com/storage/images/old/images/Monitoring Laut Obi.jpg"><br></p>
<figcaption>Harita Nickel employees conduct marine ecosystem monitoring in the sea around the company's operational area</figcaption>
<p><br>
</p>
<p>“To date, we have deployed 1,696 artificial reef units around our operational waters. Marine environmental protection has always been our top priority,” said Windy Prayogo, Environmental Marine Compliance Manager at Harita Nickel.<br>
</p>
<p>Research from the two universities also identified key marine species such as thresher sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and the endangered Napoleon wrasse. Local fisherman Saidi Jouronga dismissed allegations of marine pollution in the area. “It’s not true that Kawasi waters are ‘dirty’ or lifeless. I was born here and fish here daily. There are still plenty of fish, and they’re biting,” he said.<br><br></p><div class="video-container"><iframe style="width: 500px; height: 281px;" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3plWx-A98RM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><br></p>
<p>On land, Harita Nickel monitors biodiversity across a 5,000-hectare mining area. In 2023 alone, the company documented more than 290 plant and animal species, including 29 endemic to the region. Notably, 30% of its industrial area has been designated as green space and wildlife corridors.
</p>
<p>In recognition of these efforts, Harita Nickel received the Green Rating at CNBC Indonesia’s 2024 Green Economic Forum, an award honoring companies that integrate sustainability into operations, from energy efficiency and ecological conservation to environmentally friendly innovation. Check out Harita Nickel's work in CNBC Indonesia Green Ratings through<a href="https://www.instagram.com/harita.nickel/reel/C75Z-3BhM3m/">&nbsp;this social media content.</a>
</p>

Harita Nickel Earns Green Ratings from CNBC Indonesia for Commitment to Land and Marine Conservation

<p><strong>South Halmahera - North Maluku, 13 May 2024</strong>&nbsp;– PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk (NCKL) or Harita Nickel, a sustainable integrated nickel mining and processing company operating on Obi Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku, held “Obi Fishing Tournament 2024” on Saturday-Sunday, May 11-12, 2024, in the waters of Soligi Village.</p>
<p>This fishing tournament has become a regular agenda of the company collaborating with communities in its operational circles to promote biodiversity in Obi waters. More lively than ever, this third year event was attended by 202 participants who were residents of Soligi Village and Kawasi Village.
</p>
<p>Head of External Relations Harita Nickel, Latif Supriadi, said the company invites people to preserve Obi waters &nbsp;through this fishing tournament. Evidence of biodiversity in these waters is still maintained, he added, reflected in the abundant fish catches.
</p>
<p>“The total catch in this tournament reached 105 kg. This number does not include fish under 6 kg that are not included in the assessment. The types of fish are also diverse. Again, this indicates the fish in the waters of Obi is still abundant, " he said.
</p>
<p>Furthermore, Latif said that the implementation of this activity was thanks to collaboration of company with community and the government. In addition to raising public awareness to preserve nature, according to him, this activity also carries a mission to promote the waters of Soligi village as a marine tourism destination.
</p>
<p>Tit for tat, the company's initiative received a warm welcome from the local government. Regent of South Halmahera, Hasan Ali Bassam Kasuba, who attended directly to open the tournament, said the company's collaboration with the community and local government is very positive to raise the potential of Obi Waters both as a national fish barn and as a tourism asset.
</p>
<p>“Activities that have become a routine agenda of the company with this community, we will push into the regional and even national tourism promotion agenda. With wider echoes, the potential of the region will be increasingly lifted, and many invite tourists from outside the region,” he said.
</p>
<p>Reportedly, the fishing tournament opened on Saturday (11/5/2024) at 18.00 WIT and closed on Sunday (12/5/2024) at 10.00 WIT. The opening was attended by the Regent of Halsel who released the participants from the beach as a sign of the start of the tournament. Together with the Regent, several heads of departments, including the Department of Tourism, Department of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, and Department of Transportation, were present.
</p>
<p>The participants will compete for prizes totaling Rp29 million.
</p>
<p>As for the assessment, it uses a point system based on the type and weight of fish. For example, snapper fish weighing 6-9kg get 3.5 points, while grouper with the same weight range get 3.0 points. For fish weighing under 6 kg did not enter the rating.
</p>
<p>Agustinus Nugroho with Grouper catches weighing 14.5 kg become the first winner and ruby snapper (bagong snapper) weighing 9.5 kg. 2nd place was won by Umar with Grouper catches weighing 13 kg and snapper weighing 8 kg. In third place Imran, with ruby snapper catch 8 kg and 8 kg snapper.
</p>
<p>“I got the first fish an hour or two into the sea, and the second the next day. Both are not far from here, just a few hundred meters from the beach around Soligi, " said Agus.
</p>
<p>The holding of the Obi Fishing Tournament 2024 in Soligi Village is a pride for local residents. The head of Soligi Village, Madiasi La Siriali, said he was happy that his village was appointed as the host. According to him, this activity is an opportunity for residents to stay in touch with companies and local governments and raise the potential of their villages.
</p>
<p>Related to the development of local tourism potential, head of Halsel Tourism Office, Ali Hasan, said the waters of Soligi Village are one of the best underwater tourist spots in the area. This fishing tournament, he added, is the opening door for the sustainable development of marine tourism.<br></p>
<p>***<br></p>
<p>This article was published in Media Indonesia on May 13th 2024 with title :&nbsp;<strong><em><a href="https://mediaindonesia.com/ekonomi/670659/obi-fishing-tournament-2024-pemkab-halsel-ajak-harita-nickel-jadikan-soligi-destinasi-wisata-bahari" target="_blank">Obi Fishing Tournament 2024, Pemkab Halsel Ajak Harita Nickel Jadikan Soligi Destinasi Wisata Bahari</a></em><em></em></strong></p>

Halsel Regent Supports Harita Nickel's Initiative to Develop Soligi as a Marine Tourism Destination

<p><strong><strong>TRIBUNNEWS.COM</strong></strong>&nbsp;- Obi island waters are suspected to have been polluted with heavy metal waste. More specifically in the western waters of Obi island, where there are nickel mining activities. However, studies have revealed that fisheries productivity in waters which is administratively located in South Halmahera Regency, North Maluku, is still well maintained.</p>
<p>Several aquatic ecology survey teams that conducted surveys in the surrounding waters of Obi island confirmed their findings about productivity of the waters around Obi island.
</p>
<p>The Napoleon team represented by Prof. Dr. Inneke Rumengan, said that fisheries productivity in Obi island waters, in terms of the diversity of reef fish, plankton and macrobenthos, indicates the condition of productive waters, typical of tropical waters in general. In 2015 to 2021, it showed a stable condition of the marine biota community, with no downward trend.&nbsp;
</p>
<p>"Our team observed directly by diving, observing the fish species present there. From year to year, the trend is relatively the same. Referring to coral reef fish, there tends to be a slight increase, both in number and type in 2020-2021," said Prof. Inneke.
</p><div class="video-container"><iframe style="width: 500px; height: 281px;" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/V_hMtfAJMKM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><br></p>
<p>Based on the observations made by Inneke and her team, they found various variants of fish, both surface fish (pelagic) and bottom fish (demersal). She said that pelagic and demersal fishes from small to large sizes are still abundant in Obi Island waters.
</p>
<p>She cited large pelagic fish species in Obi waters, such as cakalang (Katsuwonus pelamis), tongkol batik (Euthynnus affinis) and even larger tuna (Thunnus spp). While demersal fish for consumption, such as grouper (Serranidae), rat grouper (Cromileptes altivelis), and snapper (Lutjanus).
</p>
<p>Inneke further explained that fisheries productivity is mainly supported by plankton. Plankton's position in the marine organism food chain is very strategic. As producers of organic materials needed by other organisms, plankton sustain the life of marine biology above them, including fish.
</p>
<p>"Our data regarding plankton that we observe from year to year, in terms of abundance and biological index, shows that the water condition is quite productive. If there are many plankton, there will also be many prey organisms. And the plankton becomes fish food," explained Prof. Inneke, who also teaches Planktonology courses at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences at Sam Ratulangi University (Unsrat).
</p>
<p>In that 6-year period, her team made periodic observations at 29 points. One of them is in the waters of Kawasi, which is located in the west of Obi Island. The results of his observations if averaged from year to year, fisheries productivity in Obi waters is still relatively the same.
</p>
<p>Regarding the number of fishermen's fish catches, it usually varies from time to time, depending on fishing gear used and wind season, so it is not appropriate to be used as a benchmark to measure the productivity of a waters.
</p>
<p>"If you look at the catch data, it is not necessarily like that, because what is there is not necessarily caught all. It depends on the season and the fishing gear used. So our research (related to fisheries potential in Obi, ed) is more accurate because we observe directly," he explained.
</p>
<p>In addition to conducting direct research, her team also conducted survey research by interviewing fishermen in a number of villages on Obi Island. The information explored includes the types of fish caught, the equipment used, and what the fish is used for.
</p>
<p>"Fishermen in Kawasi catch fish for their own consumption or hobby. Even if they have excess, they sell it to local traders. The number of fishermen has decreased because most of them have worked in the existing companies, "said Prof. Inneke, explaining the results of survey research conducted in Kawasi Village which is in the village around the Harita Nickel mine.
</p>
<p>Another survey team led by Dr. M Janib Achmad, a marine expert from Khairun University (Unkhair) Ternate, also revealed that the Obi Island waters as a whole are fertile waters because they have abundant chlorophyll. Thanks to the maintained productivity, the local community still prefers to be fishermen.
</p>
<p>" Obi's waters are fertile because the chlorophyll is abundant, so fishermen continue to be fishermen," explained Janib Achmad, who also serves as Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences at Unkhair.
</p>
<p>The findings were illustrated in the study "Fish Basket Survey in Kawasi Village and Soligi Village, Obi Island" conducted by his team in 2022.&nbsp; The study results on surveys in two villages around the Harita Nickel mine explained that the distribution with the highest concentration of chlorophyll a was in the northern part of Obi Island, where the surface temperature was relatively warm and made Obi Island fishermen increase as well.
</p>
<h3>Arlindo Phenomenon in Obi Waters</h3>
<p>Fisheries productivity in Obi waters is affected by oceanographic factors. These waters lie at the meeting point between the Pacific and Indian oceans. The meeting of the two large oceans is known as the Indonesian Throughflow (Arlindo). This statement was made by Prof. Denny Nugroho Sugianto, a marine expert at the Department of Oceanography, Diponegoro University Semarang.
</p>
<p>Prof. Denny further explained the path of Arlindo in Obi waters. According to him, the Arlindo passes through the northern part of Obi through northern Bisa Island, western Obi, and southern part through southern Gamumu Island. This is what makes the productivity of Obi Island waters very high.
</p>
<p>According to Prof. Denny, the productivity of Obi Island waters is reflected in the abundance of pelagic fish in the area. "The presence of these fish has a positive impact on fisheries productivity in Indonesia," he said.
</p>
<p>"The primary productivity of a waters is closely related to oceanographic conditions that bring nutrients for phytoplankton growth near the sea surface, thus enriching the biomass in the area," said Prof. Denny, who has conducted research in Obi waters.
</p>
<p>Furthermore, Arlindo is the movement of water masses from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean which has a positive impact on the waters it passes through. The meeting of the two oceans' currents becomes a medium for the migration of large pelagic fish, such as tuna and skipjack. These high-value pelagic fish will be found around the waters through which Arlindo passes.
</p>
<p>However, utilizing adequate equipment is needed to access the abundance of fisheries productivity in the Arlindo route in Obi waters. Because Arlindo is offshore, it requires a supporting fleet and fishing equipment.
</p>
<p>" If it is around the coast, it is utilized by small fishermen. But if we want to have a big potential, it's offshore. Eastern Indonesia is indeed a barn of fish, because of oceanographic processes," he said, advised that Obi's potential marine resources can continue to be preserved.
</p>
<h3>Local Fishermen Keep Fishing in Kawasi Waters</h3>
<p>The marine experts' research results are confirmed by local fishermen in Kawasi Village. Saidi Jouronga (58 years old) said that Kawasi waters are still abundant in fish. He admitted that he is still fishing in waters surrounding the operations of Harita Nickel, a nickel mining and downstream company that has been operating since 2010.
</p>
<p>"I only fish near here. From Kawasi to Akelamo. For bigger fish like tuna and skipjack, we have to go to midwater. But if I go too far to the sea, it's too deep and has big waves. I also have to consider my safety," he said.
</p>
<p>Using traditional equipment such as fishing rods, he catches between 20-30 kilograms of fish every day. The types of fish also vary. From Giant Trevally or locals call it Bobara, Grouper, Red Snapper to squid. He sells his fish to local traders at prices ranging from IDR 40,000 to IDR 50,000 per kilogram.
</p>
<p>"So if anyone says there are no fish in the Kawasi waters, or even if there are fish, they don't want to eat because the water is dirty, that's a big lie. I was born in Kawasi and still catch fish here to this day, so I understand exactly," said Saidi.
</p>
<p>Hut Ibrahim (60), a resident of Kawasi Village who also a fisherman, admitted that he is still fishing in Kawasi waters. Like Saidi, Ibrahim fishes using traditional gear. He used the money from fishing to pay for his daily needs and his children's school fees.&nbsp;
</p>
<p>This Article was published in Tribunnews.com on April 2nd 2023 with the title :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tribunnews.com/nasional/2023/04/02/3-pakar-kelautan-nelayan-obi-menjawab-produktivitas-perairan-pulau-obi-masih-terjaga" target="_blank"><em><strong>3 Pakar Kelautan & Nelayan Obi Menjawab: Produktivitas Perairan Pulau Obi Masih Terjaga</strong></em></a></p>

3 Marine Experts and Obi Fishermen Answer: Obi Island's Waters Productivity Remains Sustainable