PT Pasangkayu, a subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari (AAL), reaffirms its commitment to preserving local culture by championing the Bunggu Tribe Traditional Festival in Saluraya Hamlet, Gunungsari Village, Pasangkayu District, Pasangkayu Regency, West Sulawesi.
This festival stands as a beacon of the sustainability of ancestral heritage and exemplifies a remarkable collaboration between corporations and indigenous communities in safeguarding cultural identity amid industrial growth.
The event drew attention from local authorities, including the Pasangkayu Police Chief, AKP Mustamir, who ensured the occasion unfolded safely and seamlessly. Markus, the Head of Saluraya Hamlet, expressed heartfelt gratitude for PT Pasangkayu’s proactive involvement.
“Thank you to the company for continuously supporting the preservation of our culture. This is an important moment that we always look forward to,” Markus remarked.
Rich in spiritual and social significance, the festival saw the residents of Dusun Saluraya gathering to express gratitude for the harvest, seek blessings, and strengthen community bonds.
For PT Pasangkayu, this support reflects its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, dedicated to sustainable community development. Danang Setiawan, PIC of the Sustainability Economy Area Sulawesi at PT AAL, emphasized, “We believe that the growth of the company must go hand in hand with the preservation of the surrounding community’s culture.”
“This traditional festival serves as a bridge that strengthens our relationship with the indigenous community and the traditions they hold dear,” Danang added during his statement on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
The event reached its pinnacle with a traditional procession led by the Head of Customs, Neso. Residents flocked to witness a myriad of rituals and traditional art performances celebrating the richness of the Bunggu Tribe’s culture. The vibrant displays included traditional dances and music, embodying a spirit of togetherness.
Preparation for the festivities was a collective effort between PT Pasangkayu’s CSR team and local traditional leaders. Coordinated by Kartina, the CSR Assistant, and Sumarno, the Partnership Assistant, the company provided essential logistical support to ensure a successful event.
Kartina highlighted that active engagement in cultural activities like this not only strengthens community bonds but also invests in preserving local wisdom. “It is hoped that cultural heritage, such as the traditional festival of the Bunggu Tribe, will continue to thrive and be passed down to the next generation,” she shared.
Members of the management team at PT Pasangkayu, including Eli Hakim (Factory Head), Nawir (Technical Head), Joko Waskito (Rayon 1 Plantation), Ardzian via Rahman (Rayon 2 Plantation), Sumarno (Partnership Assistant), and Theo Dorus Bata (Kilo Section Assistant), attended the event. Their presence exemplifies the company’s steadfast commitment to supporting the sustainability of local culture.
Source: Trans89
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