Pertamina Strengthens Ecotourism in Raja Ampat, Helps Residents Manage Independent Homestays
PT Pertamina (Persero) through Refinery Unit VII Balikpapan continues to strengthen its commitment to supporting community independence in the areas surrounding its operations. This commitment is realised through assistance in developing the community programme of the Forest Farmers Group (KTH) in the buffer area of the conservation zone of East Waigeo Island, Waifoi Village, Mayalibit Bay, Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua, on Saturday (25/4/2026).
The programme focuses on developing community-based ecotourism, one of which is through the construction of homestays directly managed by residents. This initiative is seen as capable of optimising Raja Ampat’s natural potential without neglecting local wisdom and environmental sustainability.
Commissioner of PT Pertamina (Persero), Nanik S. Deyang, expressed her appreciation for the preserved natural potential of Waifoi Village. According to her, Pertamina’s CSR programme in the area serves as an example of community economic development that aligns with the local natural character.
“This is extraordinary, because the social programme is truly adapted to the environment. It emphasises the management of homestays by the community and for the community,” said Nanik.
Nanik added that the presence of the homestay with eight rooms and a rate of around Rp 550,000 per night can serve as additional income for the managing community group. This income can be used to support residents’ needs, including the education of local children.
“This is an example of targeted CSR. It provides economic added value while preserving the environment and culture,” she said.
Chairman of the Saupon Adventure Village Forest Farmers Group, Zakaria, explained that Pertamina’s involvement in the village began with a recommendation from the Southwest Papua Natural Resources Conservation Centre (BBKSDA). Pertamina’s support was provided through the construction of the homestay, kitchen, and provision of supporting facilities such as outboard motors and diesel generators.
“Pertamina has helped us through the construction of the homestay, kitchen, and other facilities. Since it started developing in 2018, this homestay has continued to operate until now,” Zakaria explained.
According to Zakaria, the programme has had a significant impact on the community, particularly in improving facilities, transportation access, and sources of income for residents. In addition, the community is increasingly motivated to preserve the environment, including mangroves and forest areas.
“Most of the community’s income now depends on this homestay. We are also increasingly aware of preserving the environment such as mangroves and forests to keep them sustainable,” he said.
Zakaria hopes that this programme will continue to be managed independently by the local community so that its benefits can be directly felt by the residents.
Vice President of CSR & SMEPP Management at Pertamina, Rudi Ariffianto, stated that the community empowerment assistance in the tourism sector also serves as an effort to preserve nature.
“We planned this programme while still maintaining local wisdom, so that natural potential can be enjoyed by tourists without disrupting existing lives and traditions,” said Rudi.
In addition to supporting ecotourism development, Pertamina also distributed basic food aid to the residents of Klayas Village and school bags to children in the areas around the Balikpapan Refinery operations. This aid is part of Pertamina’s commitment to supporting education and community welfare.
Through this CSR programme, Pertamina hopes that Raja Ampat’s natural potential can continue to be managed sustainably, so that it not only becomes a tourist attraction but also an inclusive economic source for the local community.