In a remarkable effort to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Duasudara Nature Reserve in Sulawesi Utara, a tree planting and beach cleaning event was successfully organized by Selamatkan Yaki. This significant initiative, sponsored by PLN UIP Sulawesi, formed a crucial part of the FMKH Big Meeting, which brought together dedicated environmental enthusiasts and stakeholders from various sectors.

The Duasudara Nature Reserve, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Sulawesi crested black macaques (locally known as Yaki), is facing numerous challenges due to deforestation and environmental degradation. To address these issues, Selamatkan Yaki collaborated with BKSDA Sulawesi Utara, FMKH Kota Bitung and PLN UIP Sulawesi to raise awareness and take concrete steps towards protecting this invaluable ecosystem.

On June 7th under the banner of the FMKH Big Meeting and in celebration of World Environment Day, a momentous event took place in Sulawesi Utara. The event drew an impressive gathering of around 200 people consisting of local communities, government officials, and representatives from various organizations. The collective effort showcased the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to safeguarding the natural heritage of North Sulawesi.

The day began with engaging sessions highlighting the significance of the Duasudara Nature Reserve and the importance of conserving its unique biodiversity. Representing BKSDA Sulawesi Utara, Yakub Ambagau emphasized the critical role of FMKH Kota Bitung as representatives of local communities in actively involved in tree planting in restoring habitats, preventing soil erosion, and mitigating the impact of climate change.  

Following the informative session, the participants eagerly took part in the tree planting activity, where they meticulously planted a variety of native trees throughout the reserve. This symbolic act signified their dedication to long-term conservation efforts and their desire to restore the balance between human activities and nature.

In addition to the tree planting, the participant also actively participated in a beach cleaning campaign along the shores of the reserve. They collected and removed more than 100kg plastic waste, ensuring the preservation of marine life and the restoration of the coastal ecosystem.

Selamatkan Yaki wants to express our gratitude to PLN UIP Sulawesi for their generous sponsorship, which enabled the successful implementation of this important event to support the work of BKSDA Sulawesi Utara. This significance of corporate partnerships in driving meaningful environmental change and urged other organizations to hopefully follow PLN’s commendable example.

The collaboration between Selamatkan Yaki, BKSDA Sulawesi Utara, and PLN UIP Sulawesi showcased a strong commitment towards conserving the Duasudara Nature Reserve and protecting its delicate ecosystems. By combining efforts, these organizations and local community demonstrated the power of collective action and the profound impact that can be achieved when society comes together for a common cause.