PTFI Supports Major Mangrove Restoration Effort in Indonesia

August 19, 2026 - PT Freeport Indonesia leaders worked alongside government officials and community members in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Indonesia, to support a large-scale mangrove restoration project that strengthens coastal ecosystems and local livelihoods.

Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees and shrubs that grow along tropical coastlines, especially in areas where freshwater and seawater mix.

PTFI President Director Tony Wenas recently joined Minister of Environment and Head of the Environmental Management Agency Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat, NTB Governor Lalu Muhammad Iqbal and local residents for a mangrove planting event in Labuan Alas Village, Sumbawa Regency.

Jumhur praised PTFI's commitment to supporting Indonesia's national mangrove planting program, which aligns with the Ministry of Environment's initiative to plant 2 billion trees in response to global environmental challenges.

Growing effort

PTFI has rehabilitated nearly 500 hectares of mangroves in NTB and is targeting the rehabilitation of 12,000 hectares across Indonesia, particularly in Papua. (One hectare is the equivalent of about 2.5 acres.)

"Mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastal ecosystems, absorbing carbon and supporting community livelihoods," Jumhur said.

PTFI's mangrove restoration program in NTB covers 484 hectares, Wenas said. The company plans to plant 1.5 million mangrove seedlings across the region by the end of 2026.

"In addition to supporting the successful rehabilitation of coastal areas, this involvement serves as a means of raising public awareness and concern for mangrove conservation and the importance of sustainably protecting the environment," Wenas said.

The effort stems from a 2023 cooperation agreement between PTFI, the Peat and Mangrove Restoration Agency and Indonesia's environmental authorities. The program supports national mangrove restoration goals outside PTFI's operational area in Papua.

PTFI's mangrove restoration work also extends to Papua, where the company has planted about 5.5 million mangrove seedlings across more than 2,184 hectares in Mimika Regency.

Widespread participation

The NTB project has created opportunities for local communities. About 1,500 residents have participated in activities ranging from seedling cultivation to planting and maintenance.

Muhammad Tisnaini of the Sumbawa Mangrove Community said the program has helped coastal residents build expertise in mangrove conservation while improving local fisheries.

"We have mentored five community groups who are now able to produce seedlings and plant them independently," Tisnaini said. "The presence of mangroves also helps fishermen because they provide habitat for various types of fish."

The planting activity highlights ongoing collaboration among government, business, academic and community partners to protect coastal ecosystems, support biodiversity and strengthen natural defenses against climate change.

Photo: PTFI President Director Tony Wenas (right) and Minister of Environment and Head of the Environmental Management Agency Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat show the mangrove seedlings being planted.