Coal Downstream Processing Supports National Food Security, PTBA Demonstrates with Potassium Humate Initiative
Jakarta — PT Bukit Asam (Persero) Tbk (PTBA) held a Major Agricultural Harvest Festival demonstrating the implementation of potassium humate and coal downstream processing in Tanjung Karangan Village, Tanjung Agung District, Muara Enim Regency, on Monday, 9 March 2026.
The event formed part of PTBA’s 45th anniversary celebrations, emphasising the company’s commitment to transformation and sustained contributions to local communities.
PTBA President Director Arsal Ismail stated that the harvest festival on a 3.5-hectare plot represented the company’s dedication to improving the welfare of communities surrounding Muara Enim. The implementation of potassium humate on agricultural land formed part of efforts to strengthen food security for local populations and aimed to increase farmer incomes in the region.
“Previously, using conventional methods, 0.8 hectares of rice paddies yielded 3.5 tonnes,” Ismail explained in an official statement on Tuesday, 10 March 2026. “With potassium humate application, we expect yields to increase by approximately 1 tonne, substantially improving farmer income. This truly is a blessing.”
Through potassium humate implementation, PTBA seeks to demonstrate its commitment to downstream processing that delivers broad benefits, including to agriculture. The programme aims to enhance land productivity whilst strengthening food security among communities in the company’s operational areas.
Arsal emphasised that the harvest festival symbolises synergy between the company, local government, and communities in promoting sustainable development. He stressed that coal represents not merely an energy source but a foundation for livelihood development.
“As a state-owned enterprise, we shall continue innovating and collaborating on research and development to increase coal’s added value,” he stated.
Muara Enim Regent Edison, represented by the Regent’s Special Staff for Community Affairs and Human Resources, Ulil Amri, expressed appreciation for PTBA’s innovation in coal downstream processing with direct agricultural sector benefits. He emphasised that synergy between local government and business is essential for strengthening regional economic development, particularly in agriculture, which underpins community livelihoods.
The harvest festival was attended by PTBA’s board of commissioners and management, local government officials including the Muara Enim Sub-district Police Chief, Sub-district Military Commander, Tanjung Karangan Village Head, Tanjung Agung District Head, the Agricultural Service, farmer cooperatives, and local residents involved in the potassium humate programme.