East Kalimantan – The working visit of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Indonesia to Muara Kaman District proceeded smoothly and was meaningful. The ministry’s delegation, led by the Deputy for Pollution Control and Environmental Damage (PPKL) of the Ministry of Environment, Rasio Ridho Sani, was welcomed with the Tempong Tawar Traditional Ceremony of Kutai Mulawarman – a customary ritual symbolizing respect, safety prayers, and the reception of honored guests.
The traditional welcome was led directly by the Great Customary Institution of Muara Kaman District, witnessed by customary leaders, local government officials, and residents. The procession emphasized the close connection between environmental conservation and the local wisdom of the Kutai indigenous community.
The Head of the Great Customary Institution of Muara Kaman District, Ayahda Arsil, S.Pd., stated in his speech that the visit was a great honor for the indigenous community and people of Muara Kaman.
“We convey our highest gratitude and appreciation for the presence of the Deputy of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Indonesia in Muara Kaman. This is tangible proof of the central government’s commitment to maintaining environmental sustainability and preserving local culture and wisdom,” said Ayahda Arsil.
The working visit was conducted to conserve and protect the habitat of the Mahakam River Dolphin (Pesut Mahakam), particularly in the areas of Pela River (Kota Bangun) and Sabintulung River (Muara Kaman), which have been designated as protected areas for this rare species.
In his statement, the Deputy for PPKL of the Ministry of Environment, Rasio Ridho Sani, emphasized that the Mahakam River Dolphin is an endemic species whose survival depends heavily on river water quality.
“Efforts to protect the Mahakam River Dolphin habitat aim to maintain its natural environment, reduce pollution and environmental damage, and increase the population of the Mahakam River Dolphin, which is currently classified as rare,” he explained.
He also called on all elements of society to actively participate in safeguarding the river ecosystem.
“We hope for community support to jointly protect the Mahakam River Dolphin and maintain the ecological balance of the Pela River (Kota Bangun) and Sabintulung River (Muara Kaman),” he added.
The Mahakam River Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is a freshwater dolphin species found only in the Mahakam River, East Kalimantan. Its presence is now an important indicator of river ecosystem health and a shared responsibility of all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Head of Muara Kaman District, Nadi Baswan, S.Ip., welcomed the working visit and affirmed the district government’s commitment, together with the community, to protect the Mahakam River Dolphin habitat.
“We hope all parties will continue to maintain and protect the Mahakam River Dolphin habitat so that its population can grow and remain sustainable,” he said.
The visit was accompanied by representatives from the East Kalimantan Provincial Marine and Fisheries Service, relevant agencies of Kutai Kartanegara Regency, NGO RASI, East Kalimantan Provincial and Kutai Kartanegara Regency Transportation Services, and the Head of Kota Bangun District.
The traditional ceremony and series of activities were attended by several customary leaders, including Ayahda Asan Basri, Ayahda Bahrul Effendy, Musriansyah, Ilham, and other community leaders, as well as local government officials.
As part of the visit agenda, the Ministry of Environment delegation also conducted a direct inspection of the Mahakam River Dolphin protected areas in the Pela River (Kota Bangun) and Sabintulung River (Muara Kaman), as tangible proof of the government’s commitment to preserving Indonesia’s environment and rare wildlife.
Editor’s Note:
Reported from various online media sources // contribution from Prime News Post // photo: courtesy/ Google documents
