Biodiversity is an integral part of the ecosystem within the Martabe Gold Mine area. As part of its commitment to environmental conservation, Agincourt Resources continues to implement wildlife protection initiatives through a data-driven approach, including efforts to safeguard primate species inhabiting forest areas surrounding its operational area.
One of the primates contributing to this biodiversity is the Sumatran Surili (Presbytis sumatrana), an arboreal primate endemic to the island of Sumatra. The presence of this species is an important indicator of a healthy forest ecosystem, making ongoing monitoring and habitat protection essential to its conservation.
These efforts are supported by the management of a research station that serves as a centre for research, education and wildlife monitoring activities. Together with researchers and relevant stakeholders, Agincourt Resources collects data on the presence, distribution, behaviour and habitat conditions of primates. The data gathered provides an important basis for understanding changes in populations and habitats, while supporting the development of conservation measures that respond to conditions on the ground.
Presbytis sumatrana belongs to the Cercopithecidae family. It has a slender body, a long tail and predominantly dark grey to blackish fur, with lighter colouring on the underside. The Sumatran Surili generally inhabits lowland to hill rainforests, particularly forest areas with well-developed canopy structures.
As a diurnal and arboreal species, the Sumatran Surili is mainly active during the day and spends most of its time in trees. Its movements are generally calm and cautious, using small to medium-sized branches in the middle and upper levels of the canopy. The species typically lives in small groups consisting of one adult male, several females and their young.
In terms of diet, the Sumatran Surili primarily feeds on plant material available within its habitat, including leaves, shoots, fruits and flowers. The availability of these food sources is closely influenced by the condition and structure of forest vegetation, making healthy and well-maintained habitats essential to the species’ survival.
According to the IUCN Red List, the Sumatran Surili is classified as Endangered. The species faces threats primarily associated with habitat loss and fragmentation, changes in forest land use, and other pressures on wildlife populations.
For this reason, conservation efforts extend beyond monitoring the animals themselves to gaining a comprehensive understanding of their habitat. Regular data collection enables the evaluation of population changes, movement patterns, habitat availability and potential threats that may affect the survival of primates.
Through long-term monitoring and collaboration with researchers, Agincourt Resources continues to strengthen biodiversity management in the Martabe Gold Mine area. This approach forms part of the company’s efforts to ensure that the Sumatran Surili and other wildlife species continue to play their role in maintaining ecosystem balance. For Agincourt Resources, protecting biodiversity is part of protecting what matters ensuring that operational activities go hand in hand with environmental protection and the long-term sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.
