Efforts to introduce the rich biodiversity of the Batang Toru Forest Ecosystem (BTFE) to younger generations continue. One such initiative was the handover of the Flora, Fauna and Herbarium of the Batang Toru Forest Ecosystem book by Agincourt Resources on 21 August 2026 at SMAN 1 Batang Toru.
The book was developed to introduce the biological richness of the area surrounding the Martabe Gold Mine, covering a wide range of flora and fauna species as well as herbarium specimens that form part of the Batang Toru Forest Ecosystem. Its presence is expected to broaden knowledge, particularly among students, while fostering greater awareness of the importance of preserving the ecosystems around them.
Superintendent Community Services of Agincourt Resources, Yayan Nuryawan, said that the Batang Toru Forest Ecosystem is a gift to Indonesia, particularly to the communities living within and around the area. The forest is not only a habitat for diverse living organisms but also provides a range of benefits that sustain life. Therefore, efforts to introduce and preserve the forest’s natural wealth need to be carried out continuously.
Echoing this view, representatives of the South Tapanuli Regency Regional Environmental Agency (DLHD) noted that Agincourt Resources’ commitment to environmental conservation is reflected in its various studies of flora, fauna and herbarium specimens. Collaboration between the company, government and communities is considered essential to broaden knowledge and foster greater appreciation of the natural wealth found in the surroundings of everyday life.
Manager Biodiversity & Environmental Strategic Development of Agincourt Resources, Syaiful Anwar, explained that the development of the book forms part of a long-term effort to support biodiversity conservation in the Batang Toru Forest Ecosystem. Through its Biodiversity & Environmental Strategic Development programme, Agincourt Resources documents various flora and fauna species, as well as herbarium specimens, to introduce the area’s biological richness to a wider audience.
The activity was attended by 110 participants, comprising 25 school principals and teachers, 75 students, two DLHD representatives and eight Agincourt Resources representatives. The participants came from nine junior and senior secondary schools and their equivalents in Batang Toru and Muara Batang Toru Districts: SMPN 1 Batang Toru, SMPN 2 Batang Toru, MTsN 3 Tapanuli Selatan–Telo, SMAN 1 Batang Toru, SMKN 1 Batang Toru, MAS NU Napa, SMPN 1 Muara Batang Toru, SMPN 2 Muara Batang Toru, and MTsN 3 Tapanuli Selatan–Muara Ampolu.
Through this book, the forest is introduced not merely as a habitat for flora and fauna, but also as a shared natural heritage to be understood, valued and protected together.
