Special area for isolated tribes

JAMBI: The Ministry of Forestry has pledged to provide a special area for isolated tribes in the province, particularly the famous Anak Dalam tribe, an official of the ministry said yesterday.

"The allocation of the special area is part of the ministry's plan to involve all tribes in forestry development," Director General for Forest Inventory and Management Sumahadi said as quoted by Antara.

He said the area would not be included in any forest concession areas (HPH) or commercial estates.

"The area is specially for them," he said.

The ministry has decided the preserved Bukit Dua Belas in Sarolangun Bangko, Jambi, will become one of the resettlement areas for the tribes.

The Anak Dalam tribe comprises about 3,244 families or 13,692 people.

Sumahadi said the ministry would also provide the tribes with resettlement funds so they could immediately get involved in forestry development.

Sumahadi was in Jambi for a two-day visit. (mds)