MPMX Restores Coral Reefs in Labuan Bajo Region
PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Tbk (MPMX) has commenced a coral reef transplantation programme in Pasir Putih Village, Messah Island, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The programme aims to transplant 500 coral seedlings using 32 spider frame units as transplantation media.
This programme is a continuation of activities initiated in April 202cap through education and coordination with village officials, community leaders, fishermen, and the residents of Pasir Putih Village. The location on Messah Island was selected based on recommendations and coordination with the Komodo National Park Authority, as it serves as a buffer zone for the National Park and is an area requiring support for coral reef ecosystem recovery.
Prior to the transplantation, MPMX provided education to the community, particularly to fishermen operating around the waters of Komodo National Park. The company also provided training on the creation and management of coral nursery media to representatives of the Pasir Putih Village Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis).
The training covered the introduction of coral nursery methods, the selection of coral fragments, the installation of media, the maintenance and monitoring of coral growth, and transplantation techniques for rehabilitation areas.
Natalia Lusnita, GM of Corporate Communication & Sustainability at MPMX, stated that the programme is directed not only towards transplantation but also towards the restoration of the marine ecosystem and increasing community capacity.
“For MPMX, environmental concern must be realised through concrete steps that are carried out consistently and sustainably,” Natalia said in a press release on Friday (4/9/2026).
According to Natalia, healthy coral reefs are vital for biodiversity, fishery resources, and marine tourism potential. Therefore, the implementation of the programme also involves the government, regional authorities, and the local community.
“Therefore, collaboration with the government, regional authorities, local communities, and various stakeholders is key so that the benefits of this programme can grow and be felt in the long term,” she added.
The programme will run for four years, encompassing coral reef rehabilitation, community capacity building, and conservation. From an economic perspective, healthy coral reefs are expected to support fishery resources and the development of marine tourism based on ecotourism.
The programme on Messah Island continues MPMX’s environmental activities in NTT. Between 2022 and 2025, MPMX planted 100,000 mangroves in Golo Sepang Village, accompanied by mud crab cultivation and the development of MSMEs based on local potential.
The Head of Pasir Putih Village, Mustaming, welcomed the continuity of the coral reef transplantation programme. He noted that the sea plays a vital role in the lives of the villagers, making the preservation of coastal ecosystems a community-driven necessity.
“We welcome and appreciate the commitment of MPMX in supporting the preservation of coral reefs on Messah Island,” explained Mustaming.
He expressed hope that the programme would continue to involve the community and provide benefits for both environmental sustainability and the economic development of the Messah Island community.