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At precisely 07:59 WIB, the unmistakable sound of sirens filled the expansive office of PT Perkebunan Lembah Bhakti (PLB) in Aceh Singkil, creating a moment that resonates deeply within the community.
This siren, rather than signaling an emergency, serves as a comforting reminder for everyone to pause, reflect, and embrace a sense of calm. Each year, on December 26, this symbolic sound marks the anniversary of the tsunami tragedy that touched the hearts of many in Aceh. Riky Agusrinaldy, the Administrator of PT PLB, expressed it beautifully in a recent press release: “The siren we hear today is a part of the Tsunami Early Warning System (EWS) that echoes across Aceh, inviting us to come together in remembrance.”
The Tsunami Early Warning System plays a critical role in safeguarding the community from future tsunami disasters. Since the tragic events of 2004, this siren has been intentionally activated each year, offering everyone a chance to pause their daily routines and reflect on the importance of vigilance and preparedness.
“This annual commemoration of the Aceh tsunami, held every December 26, is not merely a ritual but a heartfelt way of reinforcing our solidarity and resilience against potential disasters,” Riky emphasized. With 2024 marking the significant 20th anniversary of this disaster, it stands as an important opportunity to foster a collective consciousness around disaster mitigation and readiness.
In a spirit of shared responsibility and gratitude, PT PLB has taken impressive steps to enhance community awareness and contribute to environmental sustainability by planting thousands of trees leading up to this meaningful anniversary. “By engaging our dedicated PT PLB team, alongside members of the local community, we view this tree planting initiative as our contribution to sustainability,” Riky explained with pride.
Riduan Manik, the Community Development Manager in the Aceh Area, added that the anniversary of the Aceh tsunami serves as a profound moment for reflection not only for the people of Aceh but also for Indonesia and the global community. It showcases the remarkable strength and resilience that communities exhibit in facing such challenges. “We cannot emphasize enough the importance of cooperation and solidarity during post-disaster recovery. Trees are the lungs of our planet, and by planting them, we aim to provide long-lasting benefits that aid in recovery while also nurturing our environment,” Riduan stated passionately.
PT PLB, a proud subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk (Astra Agro), is committed to nurturing a sustainable future that harmonizes with the needs of the community.
On December 25, just before the anniversary, approximately 3,000 mangrove trees were planted, alongside ketapang, mahogany, tabebuya, and cypress trees. This inspiring initiative was a collaborative effort with the surrounding community, stretching from the PT PLB office yard to Telaga Bhakti Village in North Singkil District, Aceh, and it aimed to foster a deeper concern for our environment.
PT PLB is wholeheartedly devoted to social responsibility and regularly engages in tree-planting activities to reinforce its commitment to the environment and neighboring communities. The company prioritizes the preservation of local ecosystems through sustainable business practices, recognizing the vital role they play in our shared future.
In addition to these remarkable initiatives, PT PLB has been actively involved in a mangrove rehabilitation program on the beautiful beach of Kilangan Acek Singkil Village since 2018. By 2024, this ongoing effort has resulted in the planting of nearly 50,000 trees, showcasing the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Excitingly, these efforts will continue as PT PLB strives to create a positive impact for years to come.
Source: agrofarm.co.id
