Plakat Tinggi, KOTABARI.COM – On Wednesday morning, August 10, 2023, dozens of residents from Plakat Tinggi Subdistrict gathered at the premises of PT Sriwijaya Nusantara Sejahtera (SNS) located in Sumber Rejeki Village (B1), Plakat Tinggi Subdistrict, Musi Banyuasin Regency (Muba), to hold a peaceful protest. During the demonstration, the community presented three key demands to the company.
The primary demand raised by the residents is the urgent repair of the production road utilized by local farmers. This request is based on the outcomes of a hearing at the Muba Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) on December 12, 2022. The residents believe that road repairs are crucial to support agricultural productivity in the area.
Additionally, the community expressed concerns about an ongoing land dispute between PT SNS and the local residents. They urge for a fair and transparent resolution to the issue, along with adequate compensation that aligns with the value of crops already planted by the residents.
The third point emphasized by the residents is the plea for PT SNS not to obstruct road access by constructing an elephant ditch. Protesters fear that such an action would hinder the mobility of the community and disrupt their daily activities.
Yusuf, a representative of the protesting community, explained that after their attempts to address PT SNS through speeches did not yield results, they found it necessary to organize a demonstration to garner an appropriate response to their demands. He also stressed that these issues are intimately tied to the livelihoods of the people living around the company’s premises.
Imam, the head of Suka Maju Village (SP 5), also lent his support to the residents’ demands. He hopes that the company will provide a solution to the road access issue and avoid closing off the road that serves as a primary thoroughfare for the community.
In response, PT SNS spokesperson Jack Lubis clarified several points raised by the residents. He explained that the elephant ditch in question is not intended to block the road, but rather serves to demarcate the boundaries of the company’s land concession (HGU) and to provide security and crop management within that area. He also stated that there are no restrictions on harvesting activities on Saturdays.
Regarding the land dispute, Jack Lubis refuted allegations that the company encroached on the residents’ land. He emphasized that the compensation process and communication regarding land restitution have been conducted transparently.
Suroso, General Manager of PT SNS, underscored the company’s commitment to coexisting harmoniously with the community and generating positive impacts. He also emphasized that the elephant ditch does not hinder community access and that the presence of public roads remains a top priority.
In conclusion, Suroso expressed his hope for reaching an agreement with the community and resolving the challenges at hand, including road repairs, community access, and the land dispute, based on the existing facts.
The peaceful protest showcases the proactive role of the community in advocating for their rights and seeking collaborative solutions with the company. Both parties are expected to work towards a fair resolution that caters to the interests of all stakeholders involved.