On Obi Island, people and wildlife share the same environment. Encounters with wild animals such as crocodiles, snakes, and cuscuses can occur at any time. Recognizing the importance of responding appropriately to such encounters, Harita Nickel continues to strengthen the knowledge and preparedness of Insan Harita to ensure that wildlife encounters are handled safely, responsibly, and effectively.
This commitment was demonstrated through a training program titled Capacity Building for the Rescue and Relocation of Protected Wildlife in Mining Operational Areas, held on October 16–17, 2026, at the Activity Center, Kawasi Site. The training was attended by 25 participants from various Harita Nickel business units, with speakers from the North Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), the North Maluku Marine and Fisheries Agency (DKP), and IPB University.
Over the two-day program, participants received both theoretical instruction and practical training to strengthen their wildlife-handling capabilities. On the first day, BKSDA and DKP North Maluku delivered sessions on regulations, institutional responsibilities, administrative procedures, coordination with relevant agencies, risk identification, and the development of internal response procedures. These sessions provided a foundation for ensuring that wildlife rescue and relocation activities are carried out in accordance with applicable procedures and regulations.
The training continued on the second day with Prof. Dr. Ir. Burhanuddin Masy’ud, M.S., an academic from IPB University. Participants learned about the characteristics and behavior of various priority wildlife species found on Obi Island, including crocodiles, Obi cuscuses, monitor lizards, mangrove monitors, various species of parrots and cockatoos, and death adders.
The sessions were followed by field simulations covering wildlife identification, risk assessment, handling techniques, and the application of safety principles. These exercises helped participants determine appropriate approaches based on each animal’s characteristics and make informed decisions in situations resembling real-life conditions.
The initiative received positive recognition from Usman, S.Hut., M.P., Head of Conservation Section I Ternate at BKSDA North Maluku. He viewed the training as an example of collaboration among the government, researchers, and industry players in supporting wildlife conservation.
“The rich diversity of wildlife on Obi Island is something we must all pay attention to, protect, and preserve together,” Usman said.
The benefits of the training were also felt by Firman Rosita, Fire Safety Foreman at Harita Nickel, who works in an environment where encounters with various wildlife species are part of everyday life.
“This training has taught us that the many wild animals we encounter on Obi Island require proper handling so they can continue to survive and be preserved,” Firman explained.
The knowledge gained through the program will serve as a valuable resource for participants to strengthen procedures within their respective work units, improve cross-unit coordination, and share their knowledge with colleagues. In this way, preparedness for wildlife encounters can become an integral part of a workplace culture that prioritizes both safety and environmental stewardship.
For Harita Nickel, biodiversity management is an essential part of its commitment to responsible mining, ensuring that all forms of life have the opportunity to thrive. From Obi Island, Insan Harita continues to learn how to work safely while respecting wildlife. This is #CaranyaHarita in aligning operational activities with the preservation of nature.