Photo: A research vessel whose construction is underway at Tunas Sawa Erma (TSE) Group, Papua Lestari will be used for the study of pig-nosed turtles and their habitat. It’s the company’s contribution to environmental protection and science
PAPUA – Since HMS Endeavor — the world’s first research vessel — sailed across the Pacific Ocean in search of “Terra Australis Incognita” in 1768, similar ships (and boats) have been operated in different parts and corners of the globe, collecting data valuable to science and enriching the field.
In South Papua Province, palm oil company Tunas Sawa Erma (TSE) Group is building its own R/V, Papua Lestari, to help partner researchers observe pig-nosed turtles and their river habitat.
Seating up to five people, it will feature an equipment storage compartment and instruments supporting observation activities.
This boat is integral to aquatic biota study in Papua. It is expected to provide ease of working and ensure better research output.
But beyond its purpose as a mode of transport, Papua Lestari also sends a message of biodiversity preservation.
Photo: Building Papua Lestari is part of TSE Group’s commitment to wildlife preservation and scientific advancement
“Besides pig-nosed turtles, Papua Lestari will explore other river and swamp ecosystems and their wildlife, like fishes and snakes. [We hope] it may open people’s eyes to the importance of conservation work,” said TSE Group Director Luwy Leunufna.
Research vessel construction is part of Papua Conservation, a TSE Group-IPB University program initiated in 2022. This program aims to raise public awareness and protect the rights to life of endemic fauna populations, which include pig-nosed turtles and greater birds-of-paradise, a native of South Papua’s regencies Merauke and Boven Digoel. (*)
