For members of the Lintas Alam Bebas (Libas) community, exploring nature is more than just a hobby. Behind every journey across hills, coastlines, and hidden corners of Obi Island lies a growing appreciation for the environment that forms an integral part of both their lives and workplace.
Libas is an outdoor enthusiast community made up of employees from across Harita Nickel’s business units. The community was born from the passion of Harita employees for Obi’s natural landscapes and their desire to experience them more closely. More importantly, Libas serves as a platform for fostering awareness that nature is a valuable asset that must be protected and preserved together.
Established in 2022, Libas provides a space for employees who share an interest in outdoor activities. Amid the demands of daily work, the community offers an opportunity to unwind, strengthen camaraderie, and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds Obi Island.
Setyawan, Harita Nickel’s Security Manager and the initiator of Libas, said the community was created to provide a space for employees who share a passion for nature. According to him, despite the fast-paced nature of the mining industry, employees still need time to reconnect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the environment where they live and work.
“Libas brings together colleagues who enjoy exploring the outdoors. Beyond offering a way to unwind, these activities help us better understand and appreciate the natural environment of Obi Island, which is an important part of our daily lives,” he said.
Libas’ first expedition took place on January 8, 2022, when 12 employees explored the northeast part of Obi Island. Since then, the enthusiasm for discovering Obi’s natural beauty has continued to grow. To date, Libas has organized more than 20 expeditions to various locations across Obi Island.
The activities range from hiking and trekking to camping in the outdoors. Beyond strengthening bonds among members, each journey provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Obi Island’s rich natural heritage.
Muhammad Nur Wahid from the Security Department of PT Dharma Cipta Mulia (DCM) said he always enjoys joining Libas activities. For him, nature offers a unique way to recharge after the demands of daily work.
“Hiking and trekking can be exhausting, but the effort is always worth it because we get to experience the beauty of Obi Island again—the very place where we earn our livelihood,” he said.
Tasya Ayu Chandra Aulia from the Warehouse Department of PT Halmahera Persada Lygend (HPL) shares a similar sentiment. She believes Libas is not only a platform for pursuing outdoor interests, but also an opportunity to discover many of Obi Island’s lesser-known destinations.
“It’s incredibly rewarding because it allows us to connect more closely with nature and realize that Obi Island is home to many hidden gems where we can recharge before returning to work,” she said.
For Harita Nickel, the presence of Libas demonstrates that environmental stewardship is reflected not only through corporate programs and policies, but also through the awareness and commitment of its employees. The community’s appreciation for nature contributes to efforts to maintain a balance between operational activities and environmental preservation.
Through every journey, Libas encourages its members not only to enjoy the natural beauty of Obi Island, but also to develop a sense of ownership and responsibility for protecting it. This spirit reflects Harita Nickel’s commitment to advancing responsible and sustainable mining practices.