Preserving the forest and the environment from all destructive activities is a firm commitment held by the people of Linge Village, Linge District, Central Aceh Regency, Aceh. They also strive to manage the village forest fairly and sustainably in the Leuser Ecosystem Area (KEL).

This statement was contained in the Joint Commitment Statement of the Linge Village Community, read at the Nenggeri Linge Festival on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

“Youth, traditional leaders, and the entire Linge community are striving to protect and save the Linge Kingdom site, preserve cultural heritage, as well as local traditions and wisdom,” explained Namtara, a young person from Linge Village.

Linge Village is surrounded by forest. This area also produces rice, durian, and a number of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, coffee, and candlenut.

Zainuddin, the Village Head of Linge Village, stated that Linge is the origin of the Gayo people.

“We reject activities that damage the customs and culture of the Gayo people, especially the environment. This includes gold mining.”

Previously, PT Linge Mineral Resource [LMR] planned to mine gold in Linge District, which covers an area of ​​9,684 hectares. The area encompasses Lumut Village, Linge Village, Owaq Village, and Penarun Village.

The Linge community rejected the gold mining plan in their village, fearing that the activity would threaten the environment and community safety.

In the announcement of the supplementary Environmental Impact Analysis Study Plan, dated September 29, 2023, Linge Village was no longer included in the mining activity.

“We are very happy that our village has been spared damage,” continued Namtara.

Acting Regent of Central Aceh, T. Mirzuan, said that the Linge community’s concern for preserving their culture and environment is commendable.

“This positive development can inspire other regions in Aceh,” he explained.

Residents’ concern for environmental protection

Abdul Salam [65], the customary head of Linge Village, said that Gayo customary law regulates many things. It not only covers community rights but also the sustainable management of natural resources.

“For example, responsibility for forest protection is given to one person called the Penghulu Huteun. For rivers, it’s given to the Penghulu Sungai.”

He added that if a resident wants to clear land for farming or gardening, they must seek permission from the Penghulu Huteun. This customary forest leader will assess whether the location is suitable.

“If it disturbs water sources or wildlife, the Penghulu Huteun will prohibit it. If the resident continues to clear land, they will be fined.” “The hardest thing is being evicted from the village,” he explained.

Badrul Irfan, Secretary of the Aceh Natural Forest and Environment Foundation [HAkA], said on Monday [August 5, 2024] that his organization, which is assisting the Linge community, supports these efforts. Protecting the environment and forests from damage is a non-negotiable priority for the Linge community.

Written by Junaidi Hanafiah. This article was previously published; read the full article at: mongabay.co.id