The Indigenous Peoples communities of Balla, Bittuang, Pali, and Se’seng in Bittuang Subdistrict, Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi (Indonesia) are facing a serious threat to their ancestral lands.
A proposed 12,979-hectare geothermal development project overlaps with their customary territory, including forests, farms, water sources, sacred sites, and community settlements. These lands are essential for their livelihoods, cultural identity, and spiritual traditions.
Despite this, the project has moved forward without the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of the Indigenous Peoples who have governed and protected these territories for generations.
Why communities are concerned
The geothermal exploration and infrastructure could cause serious impacts, including:
- Loss of agricultural land and water sources
- Damage to sacred and cultural sites
- Environmental risks such as pollution, landslides, and forest degradation
- Social conflict within communities
A key concern is the conversion of protected forest (Hutan Lindung) into a Grand Forest Park (Tahura), which opened the territory to investment and exploration activities without proper consultation with Indigenous Peoples communities.
Communities are taking action
Together with Aliansi Masyarakat Adat Nusantara (AMAN Toraya), have organized a Kombongan Kalua’ (customary assembly) to formally reject the geothermal project.
They have also formed the Toraja Alliance to Reject Geothermal, bringing together community members, churches, youth groups, and civil society organizations to defend their ancestral territory through peaceful advocacy and public awareness.
What the communities demand
The Indigenous Peoples of Bittuang call on the government and relevant institutions to:
- Revoke the geothermal survey and exploration plans in Bittuang.
- Review all permits affecting Indigenous territories, ensuring the full participation of local communities and respect for customary land rights.
- Recognize and respect the legal and customary status of Indigenous lands, and the right of communities to decide the future of their territory.
Stand in solidarity
The Indigenous Peoples communities of Bittuang are defending their land, culture, and ecosystems.By signing this petition, you support their call for respect of our Indigenous Peoples’ rights, protection of forests, and fair decision-making about development projects affecting their territories.