As industrial activities in the Obi Industrial Zone continue to develop, Harita Nickel reinforces its commitment to ensuring that the surrounding communities also benefit economically. Through various Community Development and Empowerment (PPM) programs, the company strives to deliver inclusive and sustainable growth.
This commitment has come to the attention of Telapak, an independent organization focused on environmental and social governance. Social observations were conducted in five villages around Harita Nickel's operations-Kawasi, Soligi, Buton, Akegula, and Gambaru-with a focus on social change, local economic strengthening, and community participation in empowerment programs. Telapak found that various Harita Nickel initiatives, especially those carried out in collaboration with women's groups and local MSME entrepreneurs, have opened up new business opportunities and improved family welfare.
Dickson Aritonang, Deputy Chairman of the Telapak Association, said that one example of success came from the Obi Jaya Mandiri MSME, a women's business group in Kawasi Village with 34 active members. "In 2019, the group's income reached Rp150 million per year. Support from Harita Nickel through the provision of a business location and business management training helped them build the Hopmart minimarket. Now, their turnover has increased to Rp1.3 billion per year," Dickson said.
In addition to the trade sector, initiatives in agriculture have also shown positive results. Telapak has recorded the success of a farmer group in Akegula Village led by Mama Nia. Through a partnership program with Harita Nickel, she and her farmer group are now able to produce up to six tons of vegetables and fruits every month. The entire harvest is absorbed by the company through a sustainable partnership scheme.
"Initially, people in Akegula were hesitant to farm because they were worried that the crops would not be sold. However, thanks to the support and guaranteed purchase from Harita Nickel, agriculture is now a promising source of income," said Mama Nia.
Dickson believes that Harita Nickel's approach to community empowerment is not merely charitable in nature but rather encourages long-term economic independence. “The social programs developed by Harita Nickel are not merely acts of charity to provide temporary assistance, but rather long-term efforts to strengthen the livelihoods of communities surrounding the mine in terms of economy, education, health, and culture,” he emphasized.
The report from Telapak also notes the company's contributions in the areas of health, education, and infrastructure. The health services facilitated by Harita Nickel provide care to more than 350 mothers and children every month. In the field of education, the company provides incentives to 89 educators and supports children's learning process through the Rumah Belajar Simore program. In terms of infrastructure, the company built the new Kawasi Village and the Akelamo Bridge connecting Kawasi Village with Soligi.
Telapak's visit and the social observation report serve as proof of Harita Nickel's transparency and accountability in conducting its operational activities in the Obi Industrial Area. The company is committed to accountable industrial activities that are not only productivity-oriented but also bring sustainable social benefits to the surrounding community.
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As a reference, the Social Observation Report by the Telapak Association can be accessed through this link