Jakarta, October 16, 2025 — PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk (Astra Agro) has received renewed recognition for its consistent implementation of sustainable practices. The company was awarded the Social Pillar Award in the Education for All Advocate category at the ESG Now Awards 2025, organized by Republika on October 16 at the Borobudur Hotel in Jakarta, for its women’s empowerment and education initiatives targeting indigenous communities.
The Coordinating Minister for Food of the Republic of Indonesia, Zulkifli Hasan, emphasized that sustainability values are deeply embedded in Indonesian national culture. He stated that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles should be integral to the culture, reflecting ancestral teachings on environmental stewardship, community, and honesty. Zulkifli noted that, despite rapid societal changes, ESG should remain a lived practice rather than a mere slogan.
He further stated that the government is implementing a range of programs aligned with ESG principles, including environmental management and community empowerment. Zulkifli emphasized the importance of environmentally responsible, sustainable, and transparent investment.
Zulkifli also acknowledged the contributions of multiple stakeholders, including the media and private sector, in promoting sustainability awareness. He highlighted the necessity of collaboration to embed ESG as a core cultural value.
The Editor-in-Chief of Republika, Andi Muhyiddin, asserted that the climate crisis is an immediate and tangible challenge. He emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration, noting that government, business, and media must work together to address climate issues.
He called for ESG to become a guiding principle and moral commitment for the nation, rather than mere terminology. He emphasized that the award serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the environment.
Astra Agro’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), Arief Catur Irawan, expressed appreciation for the award, attributing the achievement to effective collaboration and partnership between the company and local communities, which serve as strategic partners in advancing sustainable development.
Arief stated that sustainability is a collective journey, highlighting Astra Agro’s collaboration with indigenous communities such as the Bunggu Tribe in Central Sulawesi. He noted that education and empowerment are essential for fostering a better future.
Arief further noted that the award recognizes the dedication of Astra Agro employees to supporting communities in operational areas. He affirmed the company’s commitment to integrating sustainability values into all business activities, stating that ESG principles underpin every corporate decision to ensure economic growth aligns with social welfare and environmental sustainability.
Norvi Srikasi Tiora, known as Ibu (Miss) Ophy, leads the Bunggu Tribe Women’s Community in Saluraya Hamlet and is a prominent participant in Astra Agro’s empowerment program. Her leadership has motivated the women’s group within the indigenous community to pursue education, empowerment, and improved prospects for their children.
She explained that, with support from the Astra Agro team, women in Saluraya Hamlet have developed local products such as handicrafts and regional food items. These efforts have increased family income and fostered self-confidence and independence among the women. She added that this progress has provided new hope, enabling women to contribute to both the family economy and their children’s education.
Ophy noted that the program’s success is reflected not only in economic gains but also in shifting perceptions regarding the role of women. She expressed hope that their children will have opportunities for higher education and contribute to future generations. She thanked Astra Agro for its partnership, support, and encouragement.
