Embodiment of Heroism: Pertamina’s Local Heroes Driving the Economy

Jakarta, November 10, 2024 – Heroes do not always emerge from battlefields. It is exemplified by Pertamina’s Local Heroes, who embody the spirit of heroism by tirelessly striving to protect and preserve the environment, thus contributing significantly to the local economy.  

Among them are six Pertamina Local Heroes who have mobilized communities through various environmental preservation initiatives. These include renewable energy development, forest management, traditional village preservation, waste management, and oil recycling.  

One such hero is Mohamad Jamaludin from Bondan Hamlet. He has collaborated with the local community to develop renewable energy by establishing the E-Mas Bayu Hybrid Power Plant (PLTH) that harnesses solar and wind energy. Bondan Hamlet, known as a Desa Energi Berdikari (DEB/Independent Energi Village) under the Pertamina Refinery Unit IV Cilacap’s guidance, now provides independent electricity for its residents.  

“When we continue to live in harmony with nature, it will never abandon us,” said Jamaludin, winner of the Prestigious Citizen Award in Cilacap in 2023.  

Similarly, Dominggus Kalami from the Moi Kelim Tribe in Papua is another Local Hero under the guidance of PT Pertamina EP Field Papua. He integrates traditional laws with environmental conservation by developing the Malasigi Traditional Village Ecotourism initiative. Dominggus, who initially worked as a porter and wildlife guide, has expanded Papua’s tourism network internationally.  

In the forestry sector, Watsoyo, once a wildlife hunter, has transformed into a forest conservationist. He encourages local communities to protect forests for their long-term welfare. With others, he formed the Margo Rukun Bestari Social Forestry Business Group under Pertamina Geothermal Energy Area Ulubelu’s guidance.  

Another hero is Burhanudin from the Bina Lestari Farmers Group, a partner of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga AFT Lombok International Airport. He advocates for forest conservation and celebrates when locals reject deforestation. “The forest must thrive again, even if it costs us sweat and tears,” he said.  

In waste management, Habir from PT Pertamina EP Tarakan Field initiated the Waste-Free Alliance Program, encouraging residents to turn waste into opportunity. His efforts have enabled 200 seaweed farmers to adopt sustainable practices using homemade seaweed floats.  

Lastly, Muhammad Yasir, a partner of PT Pertamina EP Field Rantau, is a deaf and mute entrepreneur leading the Tamiang Creative House. He runs a workshop that safely handles used oil and educates special-needs students on waste processing through the Green Inclusive School. Yasir also leads Inklusi Coffee, promoting biodegradable packaging and reducing single-use plastics.  

“God never creates failures; we are all made perfect uniquely. Let us play our part in caring for the environment,” Yasir urged.  

Fadjar Djoko Santoso, Vice President of Corporate Communication of PT Pertamina (Persero), highlighted that Pertamina’s Local Heroes are community leaders. “Every year, Pertamina recognizes Local Heroes who inspire communities to protect and preserve the environment. They demonstrate heroic qualities, showing unwavering commitment and positive impact, inspiring others around them,” he concluded.

Pertamina, as a leading company in the energy transition, is committed to supporting the Net Zero Emission 2060 target by continuously promoting programs that directly impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievement. All these efforts align with Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) implementation across all Pertamina's business lines and operations.**