InfoSAWIT, PEKANBARU — Efforts to restore the conservation area of Tesso Nilo National Park in Pelalawan, Riau, have been reinforced through the actual destruction of illegal palm oil plants and tree planting led by Commander of Korem 031/Wira Bima, Brigadier General TNI Sugiyono, on Tuesday.
During the event held in Segati Village, Brigadier General Sugiyono was accompanied by the Head of Intelligence at Korem 031/WB, Lieutenant Colonel Cpn Fransiskus Hendra Gunawan, and the Intelligence Team Leader of Korem 031/WB, Major Kav Christopher Leonard Bessie. This initiative involved cross-sector collaboration, including the Tesso Nilo National Park Authority, law enforcement agencies, local government, and environmental community groups.
“This is not just a symbolic action, but a concrete step to restore the ecological function of Tesso Nilo National Park. This forest belongs to all of us, and it is our responsibility to protect it,” Brigadier General Sugiyono stated, as reported by InfoSAWIT from the Riau Media Center on Saturday (July 5, 2025).
Tesso Nilo National Park is one of the most important conservation areas in Sumatra. This forest not only houses a high level of biodiversity but also serves as a primary habitat for endangered species such as the Sumatran elephant and tiger. However, its existence is increasingly threatened by rampant illegal logging and land conversion activities, particularly for palm oil plantations.
The illegal palm oil plants destroyed that day were part of an area that had been cultivated without permission, directly impacting the forest ecosystem's degradation. In recent years, the area affected by illegal activities has significantly increased, necessitating concrete and coordinated actions.
Following the destruction, the event continued with tree planting as part of an ecological restoration strategy. The trees planted are expected to restore forest cover and improve hydrological functions and wildlife habitats in the area.
According to a representative from the Tesso Nilo National Park Authority, this restoration is the first step in a long-term recovery process that requires the commitment of all parties. “We appreciate the support from the military and the community. This collaboration is key to the success of Tesso Nilo conservation,” they stated.
Brigadier General Sugiyono also affirmed the military's readiness to support integrated efforts to restore the conservation forest area, including enforcing laws against illegal logging perpetrators. “We will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure this area is safe and protected,” he added. (T2)
