Belopa, January 6, 2025 – According to the Indonesian Disaster Risk Index (IRBI) 2022–2024, Luwu Regency, where PT Masmindo Dwi Area (MDA) operates, ranks first as the most disaster-prone area in South Sulawesi. Therefore, MDA is committed to prioritizing preparedness in every company operation by ensuring all activities are carried out in compliance with high safety standards.

The IRBI data published by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) indicates that Luwu Regency lies in a red zone for landslide and ground movement vulnerabilities. MDA’s Head of Mining Engineering, Mustafa Ibrahim, highlighted the importance of integrated mitigation measures. “We are aware of the geographical challenges and natural disaster risks in MDA’s operational areas. Thus, we consistently develop preparedness measures supported by experienced partners to ensure smooth operations without compromising safety,” Mustafa said.

He also explained that preparedness should not only come from the company. Communities around the mining areas must also have knowledge and capabilities to face disaster risks. For this reason, MDA partnered with Universitas Cokroaminoto Palopo (UNCP) to launch the Disaster-Resilient Village Program (DESTANA).

DESTANA, a program developed by BNPB, aims to enhance the capacity of village communities in disaster preparedness, mitigation, and recovery. In its initial phase, the program will focus on two villages, Ulusalu and Bonelemo, and will gradually expand to all villages in Latimojong.

As part of its disaster mitigation efforts, MDA has installed early warning systems such as the Automatic Water Level Recorder (AWLR) in the Ulusalu River and the Automatic Weather Station (AWS) in Salubulo Village. These tools provide real-time early warnings on weather conditions and river water levels, ensuring effective mitigation.

MDA also maintains an Emergency Response Team (ERT) skilled in disaster survival. This team not only operates within MDA’s areas but also actively assists other disaster-affected regions, including Barru Regency recently. The ERT routinely conducts joint training with agencies in Luwu, such as the Fire Department, PMI, BPBD Luwu, and others. Additionally, the team provides training for several universities in Luwu and Palopo. Moving forward, the people of Ulusalu and other disaster-resilient villages will receive similar training to better prepare for emergency situations.

As part of equipping communities under the DESTANA program, MDA collaborated with UNCP to hold a disaster awareness session in early January 2025. The event was attended by representatives from BPBD Luwu, the Head of Ulusalu Village, and local neighborhood leaders. During the session, the UNCP team shared information on the causes of the floods and landslides that occurred in May 2024 in Latimojong, particularly in Ulusalu Village, supported by aerial photo data.

Beyond disaster preparedness, MDA is also working to establish sustainable programs, including education on greenhouse farming techniques. This agricultural method is designed to minimize crop failure risks and provide stable monthly income for the community. The initiative aims to replace the habit of opening steep and hilly lands prone to landslides, which could endanger farmers.

Dr. Ichwan, Chair of UNCP’s Community Service Collaboration Program (PKM) Team, stated, “Collaboration with MDA and the Village Government in establishing and strengthening DESTANA is a crucial step in enhancing the preparedness of communities around mining areas to face various disaster risks. Additionally, educating on greenhouse-based farming is a highly relevant innovation for improving community welfare through adaptive land-use techniques, which not only reduce occupational risks but also minimize environmental damage that could trigger natural disasters.”

The Head of Ulusalu Village expressed his appreciation, saying, “This program is very beneficial for the community as it provides new knowledge about disaster preparedness. Moreover, the farming methods taught offer new hope for farmers to earn more stable incomes without risking their lives by opening land on mountain slopes,” he said.***