Pertamina's CSR Programme Boosts Local Economy through Raja Ampat Ecotourism
The programme is focused on developing community-based ecotourism, one aspect of which involves the construction of homestays directly managed by residents. This initiative is considered capable of optimising Raja Ampat’s natural potential without neglecting local wisdom and environmental preservation.
Commissioner of PT Pertamina (Persero) Nanik S. Deyang praised 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 management of homestays by the community and ownership by the community,” she stated in a written release on Wednesday (29/4/2026).
She added that the presence of a homestay with eight rooms and rates of around Rp550,000 per night can provide additional income for the managing community group. This income can be used to support residents’ needs, including education for local children.
“This is an example of targeted CSR. It provides economic added value while preserving the environment and culture,” she further remarked.
In agreement, Vice President of CSR & SMEPP Management at Pertamina, Rudi Ariffianto, stated that community empowerment assistance in the tourism sector also serves as an effort to preserve nature.
“We planned this programme while maintaining local wisdom, so that natural potential can be enjoyed by tourists without disrupting existing lives and traditions,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Saupon Adventure Village Forest Farmers Group, Zakaria, explained that Pertamina’s involvement began with a recommendation from the West Papua Natural Resources Conservation Centre (BBKSDA). Support was provided through the construction of homestays, kitchens, and supporting facilities such as outboard motors and diesel engines.
“Pertamina assisted us through the construction of homestays, kitchens, and other facilities. Since it started developing in 2018, this homestay has continued to operate until now,” he clarified.
According to Zakaria, the programme has had a significant impact on the community, particularly in improving facilities, transportation access, and income sources for residents. Additionally, community awareness of preserving the environment, such as mangroves and forests, has increased. He hopes the programme will continue to be managed independently by local residents so that the benefits can be directly felt by the community.
“Most of the community’s income now depends on this homestay. We are also increasingly aware of preserving the environment like mangroves and forests to keep them sustainable,” he concluded.
In addition to supporting ecotourism development, Pertamina also distributed food aid to residents of Klayas Village and school bags for children in the area around the Kasim Refinery operations. This aid forms part of Pertamina’s commitment to supporting education and community welfare.
Through this CSR programme implemented on Saturday (25/4), 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.