Youth Action for Conservation in Planting Mangrove and Saving Painted Terrapin Eggs
The SatuCita Foundation received invitation for collaboration from Jempa, the Nature Lovers’ Student Organization (Mapala) of Samudra University (Unsam), to carry out a conservation activity for Painted Terrapin (Batagur borneoensis) at Pusong Putus and Pusong Kapal, Seruway District, Aceh Tamiang on November 16th – 17th.
The event featured activities such as tree planting and awareness campaigns aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of sustaining biodiversity. By planting 20 pine trees and 30 beach almond trees, the initiative seeks to combat coastal erosion and protect crucial nesting sites for the Painted Terrapin. Moreover, the event included an introduction to the Painted Terrapin, and the conservation programs by YSLI, a patrol for Painted Terrapin eggs and camping in harmony with nature. This is a part of basic training activities by Jempa.
Fostering Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability
“This effort is not just about today but about ensuring that future generations can witness Painted Terrapins in their natural habitat rather than hearing about them as myths or stories,” a representative from Jempa stated. “As the younger generation, it is our responsibility to protect and preserve the Painted Terrapin and its habitat for years to come.”
YSLI appreciates the activities carried out by the university’s Mapala as a form of concern and a sign of love for the environment. This is also a legacy of natural conservation for future generations, our children and grandchildren.
The conservation of the Painted Terrapin requires the involvement of many parties, including the younger generation. It is the younger generation who will pass on the knowledge to future generations about the importance of maintaining intact ecosystems along the Tamiang coastline. Painted Terrapin Egg Patrols are crucial for protecting their eggs from predators, ensuring they can be safely hatched and continue to thrive and reproduce.
This egg patrol activity has been carried out by the Foundation, as in 2022 when the team successfully saved 372 eggs from 26 nests on nesting beaches in the District of Langkat and the District of Aceh Tamiang.
Read: A Summary of Nest Patrol to Save Painted Terrapin Eggs in 2022
The event’s success was made possible through the collaboration of various stakeholders, including local support groups, the people of Pusong Kapal, and other partners like Babo Project. This action carried the theme “Batagur Borneoensis Conservation” with the slogan “Our Action, the Future of the Painted Terrapin.”
The conservation activities were a testament to the collective awareness and responsibility of the local community. They emphasized that safeguarding nature and ecosystems benefits not only wildlife but also human life. The event which was attended by approximately 80 participants also aimed to inspire individuals to be more concerned about environmental sustainability, in their surroundings.
