13 December 2023
Working on a mining site doesn't always mean living in the forest with limited access and facilities. In Harita Nickel, a downstream and integrated nickel company operating on Obi Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku, their employees have many options to meet their daily needs.
Currently, Harita Nickel through its associate business, PT Halmahera Persada Lygend (HPAL) collaborated with PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk (MPPA Retail Group) to open a supermarket in the living quarter area of HPAL on Obi Island. This supermarket, which is managed by Hypermart, offers a wide range of basic goods. What's more, the prices are not much different from those in urban areas.
Suddenly, the Foodmart Supermarket PT HPAL, launched on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, was stormed by the employees. The queue in front of the cashier was almost never-ending until the supermarket closed at 10:00 PM.
Satriyo Wibowo, who we met while shopping, expressed his delight at the opening of the Foodmart. He explained that the items sold were very comprehensive and could meet the daily needs of the employees.
“Especially for supplementing the nutritional needs of employees because they also sell fresh fruits and vegetables here,” he said.
Similarly, Irna, an employee of PT HPAL from the HRGA department, expressed her happiness because the mart was not only complete, but also affordable. Like other employees, she bought various necessities until her basket was full.
“It contains different items. There are fruits, eggs, vegetables, snacks, and more. The prices are very reasonable,” she exclaimed enthusiastically.
Rico Windy Albert, Head of Technical Support PT HPAL, stated that the opening of Foodmart complements the shopping facilities for employees. He hopes that with the variety of options available, employees can work more comfortably.
“In the end, it's so that employees can feel more comfortable and at home on the site. But still, don't forget to go home when it comes to field break time,” said Rico, followed by the lively laughter of the attending employees.
Meanwhile, Erik Rinaldo, a representative from PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk, expressed his interest in providing services at the Obi site due to the progressive development of Harita Nickel. It is mentioned that the Foodmart at the Obi site is the second mining area supermarket after their company opened one at PT Freeport Indonesia four years ago.
“We apologize if we're currently unable to meet all the employees needs. However, we are committed to becoming more stable in the next two to three months,” he stated.
For your information, the opening of Foodmart PT HPAL complements the shopping facilities for employees at the Obi site. At least 30 thousand workers are spread across four business units of Harita Nickel that are already actively operating, including contractors. To empower the local community, the company also facilitates the distribution of products from MSMEs managed by third parties in the shopping outlets.
In addition to shopping facilities, Harita Nickel also provides sports facilities and supports employees hobbies. These include badminton courts, football, futsal, basketball, table tennis, billiards, karaoke lounges, live bands, cinemas, swimming pools, and café. With these various facilities, employees will not get bored.
“Even though it's far from the city and away from family, the atmosphere is not boring. Amidst the busy work routine, we can exercise, do worship, and even play in a band or watch movies here,” said Ferry Ferdinand, a PT HPAL employee recruited from Jakarta.
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