Building Communication Bridges between Companies and Local Communities

27 November 2023

Local communities play a crucial role in a company's sustainability. A positive relationship with residents is essential for achieving business objectives and fostering a favorable public image. This is exemplified by Harita Nickel, which prioritizes Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and strategically involves the community on Obi Island in its operations.

At the forefront of building trust with local communities is Margarita Ludara, Community Relation Supervisor at PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk, representing the key role of Harita People.

Rita, also known as Margarita, is deeply involved in the community to ensure that the company's programs align with local norms and values. Challenges arise when there are conflicting interests between the company and the community, but Rita's persistence and conviction help resolve these tensions. 

She was born and raised in Kawasi Village where PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk operates an integrated nickel downstream. Joining in 2018 as a Community Relation Staff, she has since grown into her role as Community Relation Supervisor despite facing initial career challenges.

"The process was not easy from the beginning of my career here as a staff until now carrying the mandate as Community Relation Supervisor," she explained.

Working in a company within her local community demonstrates Rita's strong sense of responsibility towards her hometown. As an alumna of Maluku Christian University with a major in Theology, she deeply understands the needs and expectations of the local residents—an invaluable advantage that will facilitate acceptance by the community. 

However, being both a company representative and part of the local community occasionally poses challenges for Rita. Her commitment to aiding the community can at times become overwhelming when personal relationships, such as with neighbors or family, intersect with professional obligations. She acknowledges that unmet expectations may impede efforts to align the company's interests with those of the community. [IC}