Timah Prevents Deforestation Blight Through Fogging in Kundur

PT timah Tbk Conducts Fogging to Combat dengue Fever in Kundur, Karimun

Published: august 5, 2025

PT Timah Tbk has initiated a comprehensive fogging program in the Kundur area of karimun Regency, Indonesia. This proactive measure aims to address the rising incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and safeguard the health of both employees and the surrounding community.

The fumigation efforts, carried out by the HSE Division, focused on the company’s office premises, employee housing, and key public facilities within West Kundur District. Thorough coverage extended to residential areas, local mosques, and schools, targeting potential breeding grounds for the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, the primary vector for DHF.

Department Head of Corporate Communication, Anggi Siahaan, explained that the fogging is a crucial component of the company’s preventative strategy. PT Timah Tbk previously collaborated with the West Kundur Health Center to host a seminar and educational campaign on DHF prevention.

Residents have expressed gratitude for the company’s initiative. Amsir, a resident of Guru Village, noted a recent increase in DHF cases, especially among children, and voiced hope that the fogging will help curb the spread of the disease.

Ardian, a teacher at SD Negeri 012 Kundur Barat, also welcomed the program. He emphasized the importance of environmental cleanliness in preventing mosquito proliferation, especially during the transitional seasons.

PT Timah Tbk’s actions demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the well-being of communities near its operational areas. The company views itself as an active participant in addressing local environmental and health challenges.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications. Prevention strategies include eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using mosquito repellent, and wearing protective clothing.

Disclaimer: This article provides general details about dengue fever and should not be considered medical advice. consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is dengue hemorrhagic fever? It is a severe, possibly fatal complication of dengue fever characterized by bleeding and organ impairment.
• How can I protect myself from dengue fever? Eliminate standing water, use mosquito repellent, and wear long sleeves and pants.
• What should I do if I suspect I have dengue fever? Seek immediate medical attention.

Author: Ilfitra

Source: Adapted from a report by gokepri.com

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how might Timah’s fogging program influence the long-term sustainability of palm oil production in Kundur, considering the preventative nature of the fungicide application?

Understanding the Threat: Deforestation in Kundur, Indonesia

Kundur, an island in the Riau Islands province of Indonesia, has been facing a significant threat from deforestation, primarily driven by illegal logging adn land conversion for palm oil plantations. This deforestation isn’t just about losing trees; it’s a complex ecological issue leading to soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and increased vulnerability to climate change impacts. A especially devastating consequence is the spread of Ganoderma boninense, a fungal disease causing basal stem rot (BSR) in oil palm trees – a blight severely impacting local economies and exacerbating deforestation as diseased trees are frequently enough cleared. Palm oil diseases are a major concern for enduring agriculture in the region.

The Role of Timah: A Novel Approach to Disease Control

PT Timah Tbk, a state-owned tin mining company, has unexpectedly become a key player in combating this deforestation blight. Their involvement isn’t through direct reforestation (though they do participate in those efforts), but through a unique application of their existing infrastructure and expertise: fogging operations utilizing copper-based fungicides. Initially developed to control fungal diseases affecting rubber plantations – a historical component of the region’s economy – this technology has been adapted to address the Ganoderma outbreak in oil palm.

How Fogging works: A Detailed Look

The fogging process involves dispersing a fine mist of copper-based fungicide across oil palm plantations. This isn’t a simple spray; it’s a carefully calibrated application designed to:

Penetrate the canopy: The fine mist ensures thorough coverage, reaching even the lower leaves where fungal spores often accumulate.

Preventative Action: The fungicide acts as a preventative measure, inhibiting spore germination and preventing the spread of the disease.

Reduce Disease Severity: In trees already infected, fogging can slow the progression of BSR, buying time for other mitigation strategies.

Minimize Environmental Impact: Compared to traditional spraying methods, fogging uses substantially less fungicide, reducing runoff and minimizing environmental contamination. Sustainable palm oil production relies on minimizing chemical inputs.

The Kundur Implementation: A Case Study in Proactive Conservation

PT Timah’s initiative in Kundur began in 2023,responding to urgent calls from local farmers and plantation owners facing crippling losses due to ganoderma. The program focuses on:

1. Rapid Response teams: Teams equipped with fogging equipment are deployed quickly to plantations reporting outbreaks.
2. Geographic Prioritization: Areas with the highest disease prevalence and risk of further spread are prioritized for treatment.
3. Community Engagement: PT Timah works closely with local communities, providing training on disease identification and preventative measures.
4. Monitoring & Evaluation: Regular monitoring of treated areas assesses the effectiveness of the fogging program and informs adjustments to the strategy. Disease monitoring is crucial for effective control.

Benefits of the Timah Fogging Program

The impact of PT Timah’s fogging program extends beyond simply controlling Ganoderma. Key benefits include:

Reduced Deforestation: By saving infected oil palm trees, the program directly reduces the need to clear land for replanting.

economic stability: Protecting oil palm yields safeguards the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and plantation workers.

Biodiversity Conservation: Preserving existing forests and plantations helps maintain habitat for local wildlife.

Improved Soil Health: Reducing land clearing minimizes soil erosion and degradation.

Promotion of Responsible Land Management: The program encourages a shift towards more sustainable agricultural practices. Responsible agriculture is key to long-term sustainability.

Addressing Concerns: Copper Fungicide and Environmental Considerations

While fogging offers a promising solution, concerns regarding the environmental impact of copper-based fungicides are valid. PT Timah addresses these concerns through:

Precise application: Utilizing calibrated fogging equipment to minimize fungicide usage.

Regular Monitoring: Monitoring soil and water samples to assess copper levels and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Promoting IPM strategies that combine fogging with other preventative measures, such as improved drainage and sanitation.

Research & advancement: Investing in research to explore alternative, more environmentally amiable fungicides. Environmental impact assessment is a critical component of the program.

future Outlook: scaling Up and Expanding the Program

The success of the Kundur initiative has prompted discussions about scaling up the program to other regions of Indonesia facing similar challenges. Potential expansion strategies include:

Collaboration with Other State-Owned Enterprises: Leveraging the resources and expertise of other SOEs to broaden the program’s reach.

Public-Private Partnerships: Forging partnerships with private plantation companies to share costs and expertise.

Technology Transfer: Sharing the fogging technology and best practices with other countries facing similar deforestation and disease challenges. Technology transfer can accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices.

* Investment in Research: Continued investment in research to improve the effectiveness and environmental sustainability of the fogging program. Sustainable solutions require ongoing innovation.