Environmental drive led by BP Batam and local community aims to secure Batam’s water future
To combat rapid urban expansion and secure its water resources, Batam took a bold step toward environmental preservation with a major tree-planting initiative at Duriangkang Reservoir.
A Bold Environmental Statement at Batam’s Largest Reservoir
On Sunday, July 27, 2025, Batam’s environmental sustainability efforts took center stage as the Batam Indonesia Free Zone Authority (BP Batam) partnered with the Banjarnahor Family Association to plant 1,000 mahogany trees in the Daerah Tangkapan Air (DTA) surrounding Duriangkang Reservoir. This vital initiative was held under the theme “Hijaukan Bumi, Lestarikan Lingkungan” (Green the Earth, Preserve the Environment), emphasizing long-term ecological balance in one of Batam’s most critical water catchment areas.
Duriangkang Reservoir: Lifeline of Batam
The Duriangkang Reservoir is not just a geographic landmark but the backbone of Batam’s water supply system. Spanning over 7,259 hectares of catchment area, it supports up to 70% of the city’s clean water needs. Batam currently relies entirely on rain-fed reservoirs, including Sei Ladi, Sei Harapan, Muka Kuning, Tembesi, Monggak, Nongsa, and Duriangkang. Given Batam’s rapid industrial and urban development, protecting these natural water sources has become increasingly urgent.
Mahogany for a Sustainable Future
Ariastuty Sirait, representing BP Batam Chief Amsakar Achmad, praised the initiative as more than symbolic. “This is not just a ceremonial act—it’s a real investment in Batam’s future. Sustainable development must go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship,” she said. Sirait also emphasized the role of civic responsibility in supporting public green spaces and maintaining water quality for future generations.
Community Takes the Lead
Ridon Marbun, Chairman of the Banjarnahor Family Association, expressed gratitude for the collaboration and highlighted the group’s dedication to the city’s well-being. “This effort is not only ours; it’s a shared responsibility for Batam. Together, we must protect our environment,” he declared. The initiative drew over 200 participants, including BP Batam staff, Banjarnahor family members, and local volunteers.
Institutional Support and Collective Action
The event was also supported by the Balai Pengelolaan Daerah Aliran Sungai Sei Jang Duriangkang (River Basin Management Authority), whose involvement added technical and ecological credibility. The diverse turnout and institutional collaboration signaled a strong commitment to green development. The use of mahogany trees—valued for their environmental resilience and water retention capability—further strengthens the reservoir’s role as a natural safeguard against drought and water scarcity.
A Model for Urban-Environmental Balance
Batam’s green initiative reflects a broader regional need to balance urban growth with natural resource protection. As the city expands its economic and industrial footprint, replicating such efforts can ensure sustainable urbanization across the Riau Islands and serve as an example for fast-growing cities in Southeast Asia. For neighboring Singapore, which maintains close economic ties with Batam, a sustainable Batam also means a more secure regional partnership.
This tree-planting drive near Duriangkang is more than a green photo op—it is a crucial stride toward securing Batam’s water and ecological future. As pressures from development increase, collaborative action between institutions and citizens will define the resilience of cities like Batam. This initiative should inspire similar environmental commitments across Indonesia and the region.
Sources: Batam News (2025) , Tribun Batam (2025)
Keywords: BP Batam, Duriangkang Reservoir, Tree Planting, Mahogany Trees, Environmental Action, Water Conservation
