Kemenhut Starts Restoring TN Tesso Nilo Targets Recovery of 66 Thousand Hectare

JAKARTA - Minister of Forestry (Menhut) Raja Juli Antoni announced that the government through the Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut) officially started reforestation in Tesso Nilo National Park which is targeted to totally restore an area of 66,704 hectares (ha).

"We cannot delay recovery efforts any longer. Tesso Nilo is an important habitat for Sumatran elephants and other animals. If we don't move now, we are risking the future of the ecosystem of central Sumatra," said Menhut as quoted by ANTARA, Tuesday, March 3.

The inauguration of the reforestation program in Tesso Nilo National Park was held today in Riau, with Menhut saying that the restoration of the conservation area was a national priority because the area had very important ecological value.

The reforestation is a follow-up to the policy of clearing and restoring forest area functions which have been under pressure due to land function changes.

Menhut said the government targeted the gradual destruction of oil palm plants and their replacement with forest plants that have high ecological value.

In the initial phase of 2026, the recovery is focused on an area of 2,574 ha. Meanwhile, by 2028, the total recovery target reaches 66,704 ha. At the launch site, the first planting was carried out in a former oil palm area of around 400 ha with 2,000 forest plant seedlings.

According to the Minister of Finance, the program was compiled based on scientific studies involving various research institutions and academics, so that the types of plants planted really support the availability of feed and wildlife habitat.

"This recovery is built on a strong scientific foundation. We ensure that the types planted have ecological functions, become a source of feed as well as shelter for animals, especially Sumatran elephants," said Menhut.

In addition to the ecological approach, the government also strengthens the aspect of governance through law enforcement, a restorative justice approach, persuasive and gradual relocation of people, and improvement of land status to be clean and clear.

Menhut emphasized that the success of reforestation does not only depend on the government, but also on cross-sectoral support and community participation.

"This reforestation is not just about planting trees. This is a joint commitment to restore the balance of nature and ensure that our grandchildren will still inherit a sustainable forest," said Raja Juli Antoni.