Illegal Palm Oil Plantations Dismantled, North Sumatra Mangrove Area Restored
The government has begun regulating illegal palm oil plantations in the conservation areas of the Karang Gading Wildlife Reserve and Langkat Timur Laut. This step aims to restore the mangrove ecosystem along the North Sumatra coast.
The Ministry of Forestry, together with the Garuda Forest Area Regulation Task Force (Satgas PKH Garuda), targets the clearing of 102 hectares of land from illegal palm oil plants. This activity is the initial phase of a 389-hectare ecosystem restoration programme for the period 2025–2026.
Director of Forest Criminal Enforcement Rudianto Saragih Napitupulu stated that this regulation is a firm step by the state in safeguarding conservation areas. “This regulation activity is the state’s real commitment to maintaining the integrity of forest conservation areas,” said Rudianto in a press release on Sunday (5/4/2026).
He emphasised that law enforcement runs alongside ecosystem restoration efforts and community empowerment. The government also involves forest farmer groups to ensure sustainable area management.
Director of Area Conservation Sapto Aji Prabowo said that the area has high biodiversity value. “Restoring the ecosystem through regulating illegal plants is an essential step to return the area’s original function,” said Sapto.
This area is an important habitat for wildlife such as sea turtles and migratory birds. In addition, mangroves play a role as carbon absorbers and protectors of the coast from abrasion.
Commander of the Garuda PKH Task Force Major General Dody Triwinarto said the operation was carried out with tight security and involved surrounding communities. “The presence of the Forest Farmer Group proves that the community is a strategic partner in protecting the forest,” said Dody.
In addition to regulation, the government is also replanting mangroves in the cleared areas. This programme is supported by international cooperation through the Mangrove for Coastal Resilience scheme with the German Development Bank.