PALMOILMAGAZINE, PEKANBARU — Restoration efforts in the Tesso Nilo National Park (TNNP), a key conservation forest in Pelalawan Regency, Riau, have taken another step forward with the destruction of illegal oil palm plantations and tree planting, led by Commander of Military Resort Command 031/Wira Bima, Brigadier General Sugiyono, on Tuesday.
The activity, held in Segati Village, was carried out in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including the Tesso Nilo National Park Office, law enforcement agencies, local government officials, and environmentally conscious community groups. Brig. Gen. Sugiyono was accompanied by Lt. Col. Cpn Fransiskus Hendra Gunawan, Intelligence Section Chief of Korem 031/WB, and Maj. Kav Christopher Leonard Bessie, Head of the Intelligence Team.
“This is not just a symbolic act—it is a concrete step toward restoring the ecological function of Tesso Nilo. This forest belongs to all of us, and we must take collective responsibility to protect it,” said Brig. Gen. Sugiyono, as quoted by beige-heron-208544.hostingersite.com from the Riau Media Center on Saturday (July 5, 2025).
Also Read: Restorative Solutions for Tesso Nilo National Park Area
Tesso Nilo National Park is one of the most critical conservation zones in Sumatra. It is home to rich biodiversity and serves as a vital habitat for endangered species like the Sumatran elephant and tiger. However, the forest is under severe threat from illegal encroachment and land conversion, particularly for palm oil plantations.
The illegal oil palm trees destroyed during the operation were part of areas cultivated without permits, which have contributed directly to the degradation of the forest ecosystem. In recent years, the extent of forest damage due to illegal activity has grown significantly, prompting the need for decisive and coordinated action.
Following the destruction of the palm trees, the operation continued with tree planting efforts as part of an ecological restoration strategy. The newly planted trees are expected to restore forest cover, improve hydrological function, and rebuild natural habitats for wildlife in the area.
According to a representative from the Tesso Nilo National Park Office, the restoration marks the beginning of a long-term recovery process that requires consistent commitment from all sectors. “We appreciate the support from the military and local communities. This kind of collaboration is essential to the success of Tesso Nilo’s conservation,” they stated.
Brig. Gen. Sugiyono also reaffirmed the military’s readiness to support integrated efforts to rehabilitate the protected forest, including law enforcement against illegal encroachment. “We will continue to work with relevant agencies to ensure this area remains secure and protected,” he added. (P2)
