Ministry of Transmigration Guarantees Transmigrant Land Safe from Forest Encroachment

Samarinda — The Ministry of Transmigration has guaranteed transmigrant land is protected from forest encroachment. Viva Yoga Mauladi, Deputy Minister of Transmigration, stated that if forest areas or national parks exist within transmigration zones, their status must be revoked. “The decision provides a solution or guidance when land overlaps occur. The status of forest or national park will lapse if located within transmigration areas,” Viva Yoga said during a meeting with the Indonesian Transmigrant Children Association (PATRI) in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, on Saturday, 23 May 2026. The National Mandate Party (PAN) politician added that the Ministry of Transmigration has opened a channel for transmigrants to report their issues. “We are committed to resolving these issues. Certified land should not be evicted due to negligence or maladministration,” he said. The Ministry of Transmigration has also pledged support for rubber farmers in transmigration areas amid concerns over land conversion to palm oil plantations and mining. Viva said the Ministry of Transmigration will continue to provide guidance to transmigrant communities in accordance with applicable regulations. “The Ministry of Transmigration will be responsible for assisting transmigrants, whether in settlement units or villages within transmigration areas, in line with Law No. 29 of 2009 on Transmigration,” Viva said during a visit to Sebuntal Village in Marangkayu District, East Kalimantan, on Saturday, 23 May 2026. He stated that this guidance applies when land issues are not related to conflicts and have a Certificate of Ownership (SHM). “If there is no land conflict and it already has an SHM, it becomes a personal responsibility,” he added. In addition to guidance, the Ministry of Transmigration is also offering opportunities to enhance economic value for rubber farmers through intercropping schemes. Viva said the scheme could provide additional household income by planting other commodities suited to the land conditions. “We will communicate with rubber farmers in transmigration areas to add value, such as through intercropping programmes that boost monthly household income,” Viva said. He noted that crops such as corn and cardamom could be developed under this scheme. “With corn, cardamom, and other suitable crops, this will create a trickle-down effect to improve rubber farmers’ welfare,” Viva added.