Jakarta, ThedailyID — PT Mekar Asta Nusantara (MANU) received an award from the East Java Provincial Government for its contribution to developing Social Forestry programs across the region.
Officials presented the award during the 2026 East Java Social Forestry Jamboree at Alun-Alun Reksogati in Madiun Regency. The recognition coincided with MANU’s first anniversary, marking a significant milestone for the company.
The award acknowledges MANU’s efforts to support Social Forestry through technical assistance, partnership development, market access expansion, and agroforestry initiatives involving Forest Farmer Groups (KTH) in Jember Regency.
East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa emphasized the importance of collaboration between government institutions, businesses, universities, and local communities.
According to Khofifah, East Java remains the province with the largest Social Forestry area in Indonesia. The province manages nearly 30 percent of the country’s total Social Forestry land and records the highest economic transaction value in the sector.
She added that technology adoption and stronger downstream industries could further increase the value of Social Forestry products. Moreover, partnerships with businesses and academic institutions can help accelerate sustainable growth.
During the event, MANU also showcased agricultural and agroforestry products developed through its community partnerships.
As part of the MEKAR Ecosystem, the company focuses on sustainable corn farming in Jember. Its business model covers the entire value chain, from cultivation assistance and farmer mentoring to direct crop absorption.
The initiative aims to transform Social Forestry areas into productive economic zones while maintaining environmental sustainability.
To strengthen its programs, MANU has established partnerships with the Social Forestry Center of Yogyakarta, the East Java Forestry Agency, and Universitas Jember. The collaboration seeks to improve human resource development and encourage greater youth participation in the agricultural sector.
MANU President Director Evi Febriana Suhardi said the award serves as motivation for the company to continue creating programs that generate direct benefits for local communities.
“Our goal is simple. We want communities living around forest areas to gain real economic benefits from the land they manage. MANU aims to become a partner throughout the entire process, from cultivation to market access,” Evi said.
The jamboree carried the theme “Sustainable Forests, Prosperous Communities” and attracted more than 800 participants. The event also featured representatives from the Ministry of Forestry, Forest Farmer Groups, and business stakeholders from across East Java.
The recognition highlights the growing role of public-private partnerships in supporting sustainable forest management while creating new economic opportunities for rural communities.
