Investigative Report: Environmental and Legal Scandals Surrounding RAPP Operations in Riau

RAPP’s Role in Deforestation and Illicit Forestry Licenses

Jakarta--The operations of PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (RAPP), a subsidiary of Sukanto Tanoto's Raja Garuda Emas (RGE) Group, have long drawn criticism from environmental activists and communities in Riau, Indonesia. Over the past three decades, the company has been implicated in extensive environmental damage, illegal deforestation, and social conflicts. Investigations by Jikalahari (Riau Forest Rescue Network) and other watchdog organizations reveal a troubling pattern of illegal activities, including bribery and violations of forestry laws.

Deforestation and Environmental Damage

Since its establishment in 1993, RAPP has been accused of contributing significantly to the loss of Riau's natural forests. According to Jikalahari coordinator Okto Yugo Setyo, between 2014 and 2023, over 64,000 hectares of forest cover in RAPP's concession areas were destroyed—an area equivalent to the size of Pekanbaru city. This deforestation has resulted in severe ecological damage, including peatland destruction and biodiversity loss.

In a damning 2007 report, eight companies supplying timber to RAPP were named suspects in illegal logging by the Riau Police under then-Chief Sutjiptadi. However, the investigation was abruptly halted, with no charges pursued, following the issuance of a controversial cessation letter (SP3). Jikalahari’s findings suggest that these companies obtained their forestry licenses through illegal means, including bribery, to exploit natural forests that were supposed to be protected.

Bribery and Corruption in Licensing

The legal records are replete with examples of RAPP and its affiliates bribing local officials to secure permits for logging and plantation activities. From 2002 to 2009, at least 16 plantation companies linked to APRIL Group (a division of RGE) were granted permits on protected forest lands. Key figures implicated include Riau's former Governor Rusli Zainal and district heads in Siak and Pelalawan, all of whom were convicted of abuse of power.

"The economic loss to the state from the destruction of Riau's natural forests is estimated at IDR 1.3 trillion, with the value of the felled timber reaching IDR 2.5 trillion," Okto stated. Despite such losses, RAPP and its parent company continue to operate with impunity, projecting an image of environmental responsibility while allegedly perpetuating illegal activities.

Role in Forest Fires and Climate Change

RAPP's operations have also been linked to recurring forest fires and haze in Riau, which have devastating effects on health and the environment. Jikalahari’s investigations show that seven APRIL-affiliated companies were suspected of causing major fires during the 2015 and 2019 forest fire crises. Despite clear evidence, these cases were dismissed without prosecution.

Satellite data analyzed by Jikalahari further revealed over 500 hotspots with a high probability of fire within RAPP concession areas between 2018 and 2023. Fires on peatlands, which release massive amounts of greenhouse gases, exacerbate climate change and have lasting impacts on ecosystems.

Social Conflicts and Human Rights Violations

Beyond environmental degradation, RAPP’s operations have sparked widespread social conflict. Jikalahari documented land disputes, displacement of indigenous communities, and criminalization of local residents opposing the company. Approximately 72 villages or communities have been embroiled in conflicts with RAPP and its affiliates, 82% of which involve land grabs or forced evictions.

These activities have disrupted traditional livelihoods and caused clashes between humans and wildlife. The shrinking habitat of the critically endangered Sumatran tiger has led to increased human-wildlife conflicts, resulting in fatalities on both sides.

Calls for Accountability

Activists and community leaders in Riau are demanding greater accountability from RAPP and its parent company, RGE. The Gerakan Pemuda Peduli Pelalawan (GP3) and other organizations have called on President Prabowo Subianto, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), and law enforcement to prosecute Sukanto Tanoto and his executives for their alleged involvement in illegal activities.

"There is ample evidence to suggest that Sukanto Tanoto was aware of, if not directly involved in, the systematic bribery and illegal operations carried out by his companies," said GP3 leader Juhendri. "The Indonesian government must act decisively to end the exploitation of our forests and bring those responsible to justice."

Conclusion

The evidence against RAPP and its affiliates paints a grim picture of corporate exploitation at the expense of the environment, local communities, and the rule of law. As global attention increasingly focuses on climate change and sustainable practices, the actions of RAPP serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and reform in Indonesia’s forestry sector. (HR)