Astra's Sustainable Tourism Initiative Transforms Rammang-Rammang Community

Empowering Local Economy through Conservation

Astra's Kampung Berseri program is revolutionizing the Rammang-Rammang community in South Sulawesi by developing it into a sustainable tourism destination. This initiative not only preserves the natural karst landscape, now recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, but also significantly boosts the local economy. The program has successfully increased the average monthly income of the tourism site from Rp12 million to Rp32 million as more local and foreign tourists visit the area.

Holistic Development Approach

The Kampung Berseri Astra initiative takes a comprehensive approach to community development:

1. Environmental Conservation: The program promotes eco-friendly practices, including the production of organic fertilizer from bat guano found in the karst caves. This initiative helps maintain the ecosystem while creating a sustainable business opportunity for the local community.
2. Health Services: Astra has introduced the Kartu Masyarakat Sehat Berseri, a health monitoring program that includes regular check-ups and mobile health services using a 'jolloro' boat to reach water-dwelling residents.
3. Disaster Preparedness: The Kampung Aman Tangguh program educates residents on disaster mitigation, emergency response, and post-disaster recovery, enhancing community resilience.

Leadership and Community Engagement

The success of the Kampung Berseri Astra in Rammang-Rammang is largely attributed to Zainal Abidin, a local leader known as the 'Guardian of the Karst Nature Reserve.' As the first member of his community to achieve a doctoral degree, Zainal played a crucial role in showcasing the area's natural beauty through social media, thereby attracting more visitors. His efforts, combined with Astra's support, have transformed Rammang-Rammang into a thriving eco-tourism destination.

Sustainable Impact

Astra's commitment to sustainable development in Rammang-Rammang aligns with its corporate social responsibility pillars: Health, Education, Environment, and Entrepreneurship. The program not only contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism development in Indonesia's rural areas.