Mapping of Community-Managed Areas in Uelincu Village. Photo source: Walhisulteng.org
Walhisulteng.org – On December 16, 2024, a meeting was held in Uelincu Village, West Pamona District, Poso Regency, Central Sulawesi. The meeting was attended by community members and facilitators from the Panorama Alam Lestari Foundation (YPAL). The discussion became tense when data showed that the village area was almost entirely surrounded by two timber company concession permits.
Residents expressed shock and concern at the news. Beta Laweangi, a resident of Uelincu Village, directly voiced her concern about not knowing the company's whereabouts. Several other residents also reacted with protest. The initially calm atmosphere transformed into a space for collective reflection, questioning the future of their village.
Some residents responded by asking about the status of their gardens, which have long been located within forest areas. Yopy explained that long-managed gardens can still be protected as long as they prioritize sustainability principles. He also emphasized that forests must be understood as interconnected living spaces.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to begin participatory mapping of the management area, drafting legal documents, and establishing communication with the government and relevant institutions. Trainings will be facilitated by YPAL as part of the community capacity building program. For the Uelincu community, this marks the starting point for the struggle for a sustainable future for their living space.
"If we want Uelincu to survive and pass on its goodness to future generations, then today is the time to act. Not wait." — Yopy, Director of the Panorama Alam Lestari Foundation
Source: https://walhisulteng.org/uelincu-mendorong-pengakuan-negara-di-sudut-hutan-sulawesi-tengah/