InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Researcher from The Indonesian Institute, Christina Clarissa Intania, criticized the government's plan to expand palm oil plantations in Indonesia, arguing that it could negatively impact indigenous rights and environmental sustainability. In her statement on Friday (January 3, 2025), Christina highlighted that many indigenous territories have yet to be formally recognized by the government.
“The rights of indigenous peoples as landowners and for their livelihoods are at risk,” Christina stated, as quoted by InfoSAWIT from Tempo on Wednesday (January 8, 2025). She warned that large-scale deforestation without recognition of indigenous territories could exacerbate agrarian conflicts and increase the risk of forced displacement of indigenous communities.
Christina also emphasized the importance of Indonesia's commitment as a member of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). According to the Global Biodiversity Framework Kunming-Montreal, Indonesia should protect at least 30% of its land and marine areas for conservation. However, the policy of palm oil expansion is seen as contradictory to these efforts.
She urged the government to promptly pass the long-delayed Draft Law on Indigenous Peoples, viewing its enactment as a crucial step to safeguard indigenous communities from threats of eviction and marginalization. “Policies that disregard the property rights of indigenous peoples will only worsen their marginalization,” Christina asserted. She added that inclusive policies that respect indigenous rights could enhance social justice and environmental sustainability.
Previously, during a Development Planning Consultation (Musrenbang) at Bappenas on December 30, 2024, President Prabowo Subianto stated that the expansion of palm oil is necessary to support economic growth. “I believe we need to increase palm oil cultivation. There’s no need to fear it will endanger us or cause deforestation,” Prabowo said.
However, environmental observers argue that the claim that palm oil can absorb carbon dioxide does not justify large-scale deforestation. They warn that converting natural forests into palm oil plantations will result in significantly higher carbon emissions and damage biodiversity.
The government faces a significant dilemma between promoting economic development through palm oil and preserving environmental integrity. Christina suggested that the Ministry of Forestry and Environment reconsider deforestation plans to minimize social and environmental impacts.
In the long run, Christina believes that sustainability-oriented policies will yield greater benefits for Indonesia. Not only will this protect biodiversity, but it will also ensure that indigenous peoples, who have preserved forests for centuries, can continue to live harmoniously on their land. (T2)
