Rohingya refugees stranded in Aceh
The presence of Rohingya refugees in Aceh has garnered public attention in recent years, particularly due to the humanitarian spirit displayed by the people of Aceh in welcoming them. The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic group fleeing violence and discrimination in their home country, Myanmar. Many of them arrive in Aceh by sea, often in dire conditions.
Energy Plantation Forests
The Barbate area in Aceh Besar, once barren and neglected, has transformed into a thriving date palm plantation since its development in 2015 by Mahdi Muhammad. Covering approximately 150 hectares, the plantation has turned unproductive land into fertile soil through the use of natural fertilizers. Inspired by Quranic verses mentioning date palms, Mahdi and a community of farmers have not only cultivated the area but also established Barbate as an agro-tourism destination. The initiative showcases the community’s efforts to repurpose abandoned land for sustainable use.
However, the development of these plantations has sparked a land conflict with PT Aceh Nusa Indrapuri (ANI), the concession holder of Industrial Plantation Forests (HTI), now re-designated as Energy Plantation Forests (HTE). PT ANI claims the date plantations are within their concession area, while plantation managers assert that the land was purchased from local residents. This dispute highlights issues of weak corporate oversight, boundary ambiguities, and informal land sales. Stakeholders and authorities are urged to evaluate PT ANI’s concession rights and promote partnerships with local communities to resolve the conflict.
Photos showcasing the interior of the dormitory at the Sulaimaniyah Tahfidz Foundation
A room with a minimalist design, dominated by neutral tones such as white, gray, and natural wood. The furniture is simple yet functional, featuring a sleek sofa, a small table, and geometric wall shelves. Wooden flooring adds warmth, while large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Adding a fresh touch to the room, which is meticulously organized and free from excessive decorative elements.
The sport of Woodball will be featured in the 2024 PON (National Sports Week) in Aceh-North Sumatra
The sport of Woodball will be featured in the 2024 PON (National Sports Week) in Aceh-North Sumatra. Woodball is a unique sport that combines elements of golf and croquet. In this game, players use a mallet to strike a wooden ball through a series of gates, aiming to complete the course with the fewest strokes.
The inclusion of Woodball in the 2024 PON in Aceh-North Sumatra marks an important milestone for the sport in Indonesia. This prestigious event will bring national attention to Woodball, allowing athletes from various provinces to compete in both individual and team categories for the chance to win medals.
As Woodball continues to grow in popularity across Indonesia, its presence in the PON 2024 will help further elevate the sport, inspiring more people to participate and fostering greater appreciation for this exciting and dynamic game.
Restoring Gunung Leuser National Park: Ecosystem Conservation and Community Empowerment Efforts
Gunung Leuser National Park (TNGL), situated in Tenggulun, Aceh Tamiang, stands as one of Indonesia's most important conservation areas, harboring a diverse range of flora and fauna critical to ecological balance. However, the integrity of this park has been threatened by illegal encroachments, notably the planting of oil palm trees within its borders.
In response, restoration initiatives are being actively pursued. Among these, the replanting of pinang (areca palm) trees has become a cornerstone strategy. This choice not only helps in rehabilitating the degraded land but also provides an economic alternative for local communities, creating a win-win solution that marries conservation with livelihood support.
To further safeguard the park, clear boundary markers and informational signboards are being installed. These measures aim to raise awareness among local residents about the park's protected status and discourage further encroachments.
These collaborative efforts underline the importance of preserving TNGL's unique ecosystem while actively involving local communities in sustainable conservation practices.
Ramadan Safari by Permata Bank in Serambi Mekkah, Aceh
Permata Bank's Ramadan Safari 1446 Hijriah in the land of Serambi Mekkah, with the theme 'Reaching Blessings in Serambi Mekkah.' This event is estimated to last for two days, starting with an Iftar together and Taraweeh prayers at Masjid Raya Baiturrahman, Banda Aceh. On the second day, participants will visit the tsunami site that occurred in 2004.