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PT. Lembah Bhakti Plantation (PLB), a subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk (Astra Agro) involved in oil palm plantations, has once again initiated a social responsibility program by utilizing processed palm oil products. Previously, PT PLB, operating in Aceh Singkil Regency, collaborated with the Aceh Singkil Food Crops, Horticulture and Animal Husbandry Office (DTPHP) to enhance agricultural productivity through the conversion of processed palm oil into organic fertilizer.
Currently, PT PLB’s processed palm oil products are being used as organic fertilizer at the State Vocational High School (SMK) Negeri 1 North Singkil Aceh Singkil, which specializes in vocational agriculture and is supported by PT PLB’s plantation. This vocational school frequently conducts industrial work practices, allowing students to gain hands-on experience before entering the workforce.
“Our school prioritizes practical learning. Additionally, we have dedicated land where students can apply this organic fertilizer during their agricultural and plantation practicum,” said Wirda Hanim, the Principal of North Singkil Vocational School.
He noted that the organic fertilizer produced by PT PLB is highly effective for horticultural growing media and enhances plant fertility. Consequently, this collaboration positively impacts farmers’ productivity in Aceh Singkil.
He emphasized that organic fertilizer from PT PLB also supports student practicums, as it promotes environmentally friendly practices from an early age. “The fertilizer produced from PT PLB’s palm oil plantation is essential for the successful implementation of school practicums,” he added.
The corporate social responsibility (CSR) program of PT PLB is built on four main pillars: environment, education, health, and economy. PT PLB Aceh Singkil actively assists communities, groups, farmers, and organizations in need. For instance, providing organic fertilizer to the school aligns with the Education and Environment pillars. Previously, PT PLB had invited students specializing in Plantation Crop Agribusiness to visit the plantation area, giving them direct exposure to the business process and sustainable planting and seeding practices.
Riduan Manik, the Community Development Area Manager for Aceh, confirmed this initiative. He stated that PT PLB’s program reflects the company’s commitment to education and environmental sustainability. “We hope that these vocational students will become future planters, so raising their awareness of sustainable plantation practices from an early age is crucial,” said Riduan Manik.
He further added that utilizing processed palm oil products illustrates the many benefits of oil palm plantations, which can be maximally leveraged for the surrounding environment, thereby increasing plant productivity. Riduan expressed hope that the collaboration initiated by PT PLB would continue and that more beneficiaries could be supported through the plantations in Aceh Singkil District.
Source: RRI.co.id
