InfoSAWIT, KAPUAS HULU – PT Ichiko Agro Lestari's proposal to establish oil palm plantations in Embaloh Hulu District, Kapuas Hulu Regency, has sparked strong opposition from the indigenous Tamambaloh community. Residents accuse the company of conducting non-transparent socialization sessions since 15 May 2025, raising tensions in the area.

Tamambaloh Tribal Chief Vincentius Lantando criticized the company's approach during the first district-level meeting, stating, "This wasn't consultation – it felt like a unilateral announcement of predetermined plans," in an official statement received by InfoSAWIT on Saturday (24/5/2025).

The company initially targeted five villages for Phase 1 development: Pulau Manak, Banua Martinus, Banua Ujung, Saujung Giling Manik, and Ulak Pauk. Two villages have already rejected the proposal outright, while others remain divided or await decisions through traditional Kombong Banua forums.

A 16 May meeting in Pulau Manak revealed deep community divisions. "We depend on forests and rivers for survival," one resident stated, while others conditionally supported the plan, demanding alternative livelihoods as compensation.

Environmental concerns center on the Tamambaloh River, the sole clean water source for multiple villages. "If even one village accepts this, all river-dependent communities will suffer," warned youth leader Claudia Liberani of Saujung Giling Manik.

Following these tensions, the Tamambaloh held a Kombong Banua assembly on 20 May, formally rejecting the plantation proposal and accelerating efforts for indigenous land recognition. "Our refusal is measured and deliberate," emphasized community leader Baki Suhardiono.

As of press time, PT Ichiko Agro Lestari has not issued an official response. The lack of transparency and community division remain key concerns regarding the project's future. (T2)