PT Masmindo Dwi Area (MDA) continues to strengthen the implementation of Jaga Keselamatan Desa (Village Safety Initiative), one of the key pillars of its Jaga Desa Program, through the Disaster-Resilient Village (DESTANA) Capacity Building Program in Kadundung Village, Latimojong District, Luwu Regency. Conducted in collaboration with the Center for Mapping and Disaster Studies (PUSPENA) of Cokroaminoto University of Palopo (UNCP), the Luwu Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), the initiative makes Kadundung the fifth village to receive DESTANA assistance since the program was launched in 2024.

The program was developed based on community aspirations gathered through the MATAPPA Village Forum (FORDES MATAPPA). These aspirations were translated into a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening community resilience against disaster risks through the establishment of Disaster-Resilient Villages (DESTANA). The program includes disaster risk mapping, the development of village emergency response mechanisms, disaster simulation exercises, and basic emergency response training.

The initiative is implemented progressively, taking into account the unique characteristics and needs of each village. Following its launch in Bonelemo and Ulusalu Villages in 2024, the program expanded to Boneposi, Tolajuk, and now Kadundung throughout 2026. This phased approach reflects MDA's long-term commitment, together with its partners, to building a sustainable disaster preparedness system across the Latimojong area.

In Kadundung Village, community members participated in training on disaster risk reduction, emergency coordination mechanisms, and the development of village emergency response plans. The program concluded with a first aid simulation led by the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in collaboration with PT Masmindo Dwi Area's Emergency Response Team (ERT). During the simulation, participants practiced victim handling, initial evacuation procedures, and coordination among village stakeholders, providing them with practical experience in responding to emergency situations.

PT Masmindo Dwi Area's Head of Mining Engineering (KTT), Mustafa Ibrahim, stated that strengthening community capacity is an essential part of the company's commitment to responsible and sustainable mining operations.

"At MDA, safety is not only a workplace culture but also a value we strive to cultivate together with the communities surrounding our operations. Through the Jaga Keselamatan Desa initiative, we continue to strengthen collaboration with government institutions, universities, humanitarian organizations, and local communities so that every village is better equipped to identify risks, establish effective response mechanisms, and act swiftly during emergencies," said Mustafa.

Head of the Center for Mapping and Disaster Studies (PUSPENA) at Cokroaminoto University of Palopo (UNCP), Dr. Ichwan Muis, emphasized that building disaster-resilient villages requires continuous mentoring to ensure that preparedness becomes an integral part of community culture.

"A disaster-resilient village cannot be built through a single training session. It is the result of continuous learning, regular drills, and consistent evaluation. When communities understand the risks they face, recognize their respective roles, and routinely practice together, their capacity to respond to disasters becomes significantly stronger," said Dr. Ichwan.

Kadundung Village Head Parambung expressed appreciation for the collaboration between MDA, PUSPENA UNCP, BPBD Luwu, and PMI in strengthening community preparedness.

"We have experienced the tangible benefits of this program. The community has gained not only knowledge but also the opportunity to directly practice emergency response procedures. Activities like these help people better understand how to respond, coordinate with one another, and support each other during emergency situations," said Parambung.

For MDA, building resilient villages is not a short-term initiative but a long-term social investment that grows alongside the community. Through the Jaga Desa Program, the company will continue to strengthen partnerships with various stakeholders to ensure that every village within its operational area becomes increasingly capable of addressing a wide range of challenges, including disaster risks.