BioCF ISFL Jambi

Jambi, 22 Desember 2025 – Perubahan Iklim kini bukan lagi isu global yang jauh dari kehidupan sehari-hari. Dampaknya nyata, mulai dari cuaca ekstrem, kebakaran hutan dan lahan, hingga ancaman terhadap sumber penghidupan masyarakat. Di tengah tantangan tersebut, Provinsi Jambi tampil sebagai salah satu daerah yang serius menata langkah menuju pembangunan rendah karbon melalui penguatan tata kelola hutan dan karbon.
Komitmen ini tercermin dalam pengembangan berbagai inisiatif pengendalian emisi gas rumah kaca, mulai dari penguatan arsitektur REDD+, penerapan Nilai Ekonomi Karbon (NEK), hingga pelaksanaan Program BioCarbon Fund-Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes (BioCF-ISFL) yang didukung Bank Dunia.

Modal Alam dan Komitmen Daerah
Dengan Ekosistem hutan yang lengkap—mulai dari hutan hujan dataran rendah, pegunungan, hingga kawasan gambut dan mangrove—Jambi memliki posisi strategis dalam upaya penurunan emisi sektor kehutanan dan penggunaan lahan. Lebih dari 40 persen wilayah provinsi ini masih berupa kawasan hutan, termasuk empat taman nasional yang menjadi habitat satwa kunci Sumatra.
Pemerintah Provinsi Jambi juga dinilai memiliki fondasi kelembagaan yang relatif kuat. Kelembagaan REDD+ telah terbentuk, kebijakan pencegahan kebakaran hutan dan lahan terus diperkuat, serta skema perhutanan sosial dikembangkan untuk mendorong pengelolaan hutan berbasis masyarakat.
"Upaya menurunkan emisi tidak bisa dilepaskan dari perencanaan pembangunan daerah. Karena itu, aksi iklim harus terintegrasi dengan ekonomi, tata ruang, dan kesejahteraan masyarakat," menjadi salah satu benang merah yang mengemuka dalam berbagai pemaparan.

BioCF-ISFL: Insentif untuk Menjaga Hutan
Melalui Program BioCF-ISFL, Provinsi Jambi menargetkan penurunan emisi hingga 10 juta ton CO2e. Program ini mencakup intervensi di berbagai Kesatuan Pengelolaan Hutan (KPH), perhutanan sosial, lahan gambut, hingga wilayah non hutan. Tidak hanya fokus pada penurunan emisi, BioCF-ISFL juga diarahkan untuk mendorong kegiatan produktif berkelanjutan seperti agroforestri, pertanian ramah lingkungan, dan restorasi lahan terdegredasi.
Bagi daerah, skema ini menjadi peluang strategis untuk mengaitkan perlindungan lingkungan dengan manfaat ekonomi langsung, sekaligus mendukung target besar Indonesia FOLU Net Sink 2030.

Nesting Karbon, Menyatukan Banyak Inisiatif
Seiring berkembangnya proyek-proyek karbon di tingkat tapak—baik berbasis komunitas, perhutanan sosial, maupun konsesi—tantangan baru pun muncul. Tanpa mekanisme yang jelas, risiko penghitungan ganda, klaim ganda, hingga konflik kepentingan menjadi terelakkan.
Di sinilah nesting karbon menjadi krusial. Nesting adalah mekanisme untuk menyelaraskan proyek-proyek karbon dengan program yurisdiksi provinsi dan kebijakan nasional, sehingga seluruh penurunan emisi dapat dicatat, diverifikasi, dan dimanfaatkan secara sah.
Berbagai pendekatan nesting dibahas, mulai dari integrasi penuh (fully nested), sebagian (parially nested), hingga opsi transisi yang memberi ruang bagi proyek tetap berjalan sambil menyesuaikan baseline dan sistem MRV dengan yurisdiksi.
Standar internasional seperti Plan Vivo menekankan peran petani kecil dan masyarakat sebagai pusat kegiatan, sementara ART-TREES membuka peluang bagi pemerintah daerah untuk menerbitkan kredit karbon yurisdiksi yang dapat diperdagangkan di pasar sukarela maupun regulasi. Fleksibilitas ini memberi ruang bagi Jambi untuk memilih pendekatan yang paling sesuai dengan karakter wilayahnya.

Masyarakat di Pusat Tata Kelola
Isu penting lainnya adalah bagaimana memastikan masyarakat tidak hanya menjadi objek, tetapi subjek dalam ekonomi karbon. Pendekatan polycentric governance menegaskan bahwa pengambilan keputusan harus melibatkan banyak aktor di berbagai tingkat, dengan masyarakat sebagai titik temu utama.
Prinsip persetujuan atas dasar informasi awal tanpa paksaan (FPIC), pembagian manfaat yang adil, safeguards sosial dan lingkungan, serta mekanisme pengauan menjadi elemen kunci agar kebijakan karbon tidak menciptakan ketimpangan baru.
"Menjaga hutan harus memberikan manfaat nyata bagi masyarakat yang hidup berdampingan dengan hutan," menjadi pesan kuat yang terus ditekankan.

Menuju Pasar Karbon yang Berintegritas
Dengan terbitnya Peraturan Presiden tentang Nilai Ekonomi Karbon dan aturan turunannya, Indonesia memasuki babak baru pengelolaan emisi. Perdagangan karbon tidak lagi dipandang semata sebagai instrumen lingkungan, tetapi juga sebagai bagian dari strategi pembangunan nasional.
Bagi Provinsi Jambi, kesiapan memasuki pasar karbon menuntuk kejelasan hak atas karbon, sistem MRV yang kredibel, serta koordinasi lintas sektor dan lintas wilayah. Tantangan tersebut sekaligus membuka peluang untuk menjadikan Jambi sebagai model nasional tata kelola karbon berintegritas.
Ke depan, keberhasilan Jambi tidak hanya diukur dari besarnya emisi yang diturunkan atau nilai karbon yang diperdagangkan, tetapi dari kemampuannya menyeimbangkan perlindungan hituan, kesejahteraan masyarakat, dan pertumbuhan ekonom hijau yang berkalnjutan.

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Jambi, 13 October 2025 – The Jambi Provincial Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the role of Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (CSR) as a crucial instrument for sustainable development and emissions reduction. Through activities facilitated by the Jambi Provincial Development Planning Agency (Bappeda), various stakeholders from the central, provincial, district/city, and private sectors gathered to align CSR program direction with regional development priorities.

In his remarks, the Secretary of the Jambi Provincial Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) highlighted the importance of increasing private sector participation in generating Emission Reduction (ER) within the BioCF ISFL program framework for 2025. Since entering the Pre-Investment phase in 2022, Jambi Province has allocated a budget of IDR 82.38 billion, with support from five key regional agencies: Bappeda, the TPHP Office, the Plantation Office, the Environmental Office, and the Forestry Office.

This meeting specifically discussed the implementation of the Community Service (TJSLBU)/CSR program that supports emission reduction and showcased best practices in CSR fund management in various regions. The main objective was to build synergy and synchronization between the government and businesses so that CSR becomes an integral part of regional development.

The Strategic Role of the Social Service and the Community Service Forum

The Head of the Jambi Province Social Service and Civil Registration Agency (Dukcapil), represented by the Head of the Social Empowerment Division, emphasized the Social Service's role in providing guidance, supervision, and capacity development for businesses in implementing Community Service (TJSLBU). Based on Ministerial Regulation Number 9 of 2020, every business entity is required to periodically report CSR activities to the government, with reports containing program information, budgets, and activity documentation.

In 2024, various initiatives implemented with CSR funding, such as road infrastructure improvements and the procurement of transportation for official operations, demonstrated the business sector's tangible contribution to regional development. The Jambi Province Community Service Forum is also developing a web-based system to strengthen its database and enhance the professionalism of its administrators until 2027.

Active Regency/City Involvement

A presentation from the Tanjung Jabung Barat Regency Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) revealed that the implementation of Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSLP) has become part of the regional development strategy. Although not yet optimally coordinated, the local government has made various efforts to ensure more active and targeted corporate involvement. From the village development planning meeting (Musrenbangdes) to the proposal of priority programs, companies are directed to fund activities that cannot be covered by the regional budget (APBD).

The Tanjung Jabung Timur Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) also emphasized the importance of synergy between CSR and regional programs. Their CSR policy, stipulated in Regional Regulation No. 13 of 2013, is geared toward addressing the real needs of the community, with a focus on strengthening the economy, socio-cultural environment, and developing village infrastructure.

Discussion: Challenges and Recommendations

The discussion forum revealed common challenges across various regencies/cities, particularly in reporting and coordination with companies. Several regions, such as Sarolangun and Batanghari, complained about a lack of reporting from business entities and low private sector awareness in supporting government programs.

In response, several strategies from other regions were outlined. Tanjung Jabung Barat Regency, for example, encourages intensive communication and provides annual awards to active companies as a token of appreciation. Meanwhile, in Tanjung Jabung Timur, direct communication between the regional head and company leaders is considered effective in increasing participation.

The Way Forward: Regulations and Standardization

As a follow-up, the Jambi Provincial Development Planning Agency (Bappeda) plans to draft a Governor's Regulation (Pergub) as a derivative of the Provincial CSR Regulation. This Regulation will regulate coordination mechanisms, the role of the facilitation team, and an integrated reporting system. Furthermore, the management of the Jambi Provincial CSR Forum will be overhauled to improve coordination effectiveness.

The Jambi Provincial Social Services Agency is also mandated to strengthen monitoring and evaluation of CSR implementation at the district/city level. Regional governments are also asked to adjust their regulations to align with national regulations, particularly Social Affairs Ministerial Regulation No. 9 of 2020.

2025 Focus: Social and Environmental Improvement

Jambi Province is committed to directing CSR funds to two main targets: reducing carbon emissions and improving social welfare. Twelve categories of community groups are prioritized as beneficiaries, ranging from vulnerable children, neglected elderly, people with disabilities, disaster victims, to the poor and remote indigenous communities.

CSR is no longer merely a corporate formality; it has become a strategic part of sustainable development. Through synergy between the government and businesses, Jambi Province hopes to realize inclusive, green, and sustainable development that favors the community and the environment.

Conclusion

This meeting serves as the initial step to unify perceptions and take concrete steps to integrate CSR into the regional development agenda. Cross-sectoral synergy and strong regulations are expected to make Jambi a model for successful and sustainable CSR implementation in Indonesia.

Jambi, October 2025 — The Jambi Provincial Government, through the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda), together with various Regional Apparatus Organizations (OPDs) and supporting institutions, continues to accelerate the implementation of the BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes (BioCF-ISFL) program, which will reach a critical stage in 2025 and 2026. In a cross-sector coordination meeting involving various technical agencies and partners, the Head of the Jambi Provincial Bappeda, Ir. Agus Sunaryo, M.Si., emphasized the need for accelerated and synchronized steps between OPDs. "The 2025 implementation projection only runs until October. Several activities have not yet been implemented because they are still awaiting changes to the Regional Budget (APBD)," he said. He added that for 2026, implementation will only last until May, with the reimbursement process already underway in June. Furthermore, there is a significant discrepancy in the budget ceiling. The RKA document lists only IDR 4 billion, while coordination with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and the World Bank indicates a potential ceiling of up to IDR 6 billion. "This requires follow-up in the form of a LEMTARA agreement and performance allocation," Agus emphasized.

Input from Technical OPDs: Field Challenges

A representative from the Environmental Agency (DLH), Adi, reported that monitoring and evaluation (monev) activities for safeguards presented a particular challenge. "Many activities were conducted in the field, while the use of budgets for vehicle rentals was a finding during the audit," he said. Furthermore, the DLH is also responsible for implementing customary territory recognition and public consultations involving various stakeholders. From the Forestry Agency's perspective, budget efficiency issues have led to shifts in official travel. Forest Management Units (KPH) also voiced concerns. "KPHs are afraid that once the program is underway, they won't be able to reimburse," said the agency representative. The Plantation Agency noted that the projected 2025 budget is approximately IDR 985 million, allocated for five priority activities. While the figure is not large, clarity and timeliness of implementation remain key concerns.

Regulatory Barriers and Administrative Solutions

According to Agus Sunardi of the Regional Revenue and Finance Management Agency (BPKPD), political dynamics at the Budget Agency (Banggar) level are one of the main obstacles. Nevertheless, he is optimistic that the APBD can be finalized on September 24, with ratification scheduled for September 26. "After ratification, the documents will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs three days later. We estimate that the revised budget can be executed between October 27-31," Agus explained. He also emphasized that the reimbursement process has a one-month deadline and that the verification process is expected to be completed by December. Regarding the issue of official vehicle use, the BPKPD reminded that based on the latest presidential regulation, only regional heads and heads of agencies are permitted to use rented vehicles for official activities. To avoid audit findings, efficient operational vehicle management among regional government agencies (OPDs) is recommended. Regarding the budget increase from IDR 4 billion to IDR 6 billion, Agus stated that the additional IDR 2 billion can be immediately distributed to technical SKPDs. "We will also strive to ensure that the DLH's findings are categorized as administrative findings, not serious violations," he added.

Recommendations and Strategic Steps

The coordination meeting also produced several important recommendations:

• The program application process from villages must go through the stages of allocation, activity proposal, verification, and approval by the province and the ministry.
• Criteria for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) include domicile in the region, a minimum of 7 years of organizational age, and a minimum of 5 years of experience in the relevant field.
• The Provincial BSM Team has been formed and is currently updating the training module.
• SOPs related to benefits identification, risk mitigation, and LEMTARA selection have been developed.
• A draft Gubernatorial Regulation has been prepared and is being finalized.
• The technical team is also developing implementation guidelines (juklak) and technical guidelines (juknis).
• Validation of NGOs and universities is carried out to ensure credibility and avoid conflicts of interest.
• The preparation of the BSP documents, SOPs, operational guidelines, and technical guidelines needs to be expedited so they are ready before funds are transferred or the Emission Reduction Payment Agreement (ERPA) is signed.
• Recognition of customary territories through a Regent's Decree is a priority so that indigenous peoples' demands can be legally accommodated.
• Adjustment of official travel schedules between the central and regional governments needs to be considered for greater effectiveness and efficiency.

Conclusion

Given the various technical, administrative, and political challenges faced, cross-sector collaboration and accelerated decision-making are key to the successful implementation of the BioCF-ISFL program in Jambi Province. Commitment from all parties to aligning policies, budgets, and field implementation is essential to achieve maximum results in 2025 and 2026.

Jambi, September 3–4, 2025 — The Jambi Provincial Government, through the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda), held a Coordination Meeting for the Preparation of the Phase I Emission Reduction Monitoring Report (ERMR) for the Jambi Emission Reduction Program (ERP) for the 2020–2022 period. This event served as a crucial opportunity to ensure Jambi Province's readiness to move towards results-based payments (RBP) through a collaborative mechanism with the World Bank.

Opening and Strategic Direction

The meeting was opened by Ir. H. Sepdinal, ME, representing the Head of Bappeda. In his remarks, he emphasized that the preparation of the ERMR is a strategic step in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Jambi. The Phase I ERMR includes seven chapters and five appendices prepared by the MAR team with cross-sectoral contributions, including safeguards, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), the Benefit Sharing Mechanism (BSM), and other aspects.

BIOCF Program Progress and Pre-Investment

As of mid-2025, the BioCarbon Fund (BIOCF) program remains in the pre-investment phase, focusing on strengthening institutions and policies. Negotiations on the Emission Reduction Payment Agreement (ERPA) with the World Bank have been delayed due to updates to the environmental, social, and benefit sharing plan (BSP) documents. Despite this, budget realization has reached 77.2%, despite various operational challenges in the field.

Emissions Data Compilation and Consistency

During the discussion of the ERMR document, meeting participants highlighted the importance of data consistency with national sources such as SignSmart and IPSDH. Activity data, particularly from the agriculture and livestock sectors, is expected to be completed by 2024. The technical team emphasized that all land cover change data will be presented in Excel matrix format to facilitate the verification process and avoid data discrepancies.

Benefit Sharing Plan (BSP): Fairness for All Parties

The BSP preparation is now in the finalization stage. The benefit-sharing plan includes 57% based on performance, 1–1.5% for voluntary palm oil companies, and 5% for small-scale social forestry (PS) groups. The discussion also highlighted the determination of the intermediary institution (Lemtara) for benefit distribution, with three options: a local selection team under the Governor, a central agency, or the BPDLH.
The main challenges lie in the completeness of beneficiary data and field validation. To prevent overlap, the BSP recommends using a single safeguard document, which has been approved since 2022.

Safeguards and Integration of Supporting Documents

The Jambi emission reduction program implements two safeguard systems: the OPBP for free investment and the ISS for result-based payment. It was agreed that there was no need to create new documents, but rather to adapt existing guidelines. Synchronization between the BSP and safeguards is a priority to avoid implementation conflicts.

Carbon Trading and National Registration

The discussion also covered the carbon registration process in the National Registration System (SRN) and its integration with the World Bank's Carbon Asset Tracking System (CATS). All entities, including indigenous communities and NGOs like Warsi, are required to register with the SRN and obtain central government approval. The discussion highlighted the importance of regional regulatory readiness for an effective carbon trading mechanism.

Implementation and Coordination Challenges

Several challenges remain, ranging from limited microdata on carbon asset groups, changes in spatial planning policies, to cross-sectoral synchronization. The Jambi Provincial Government is committed to strengthening coordination and accelerating ERPA negotiations to support the sustainability of results-based payments.

Day Two: Deeper Understanding of Reversal Buffers, Safeguards, and Non-Carbon Benefits
Managing Reversal and Buffer Risks

The discussion on Thursday, September 4, 2025, focused on buffer mechanisms and reversal risks, referring to the 2023 SFL Buffer Requirement. Fifteen percent of total emission reductions will be allocated as a buffer account to anticipate the risk of emission reversals due to fires, floods, land tenure conflicts, or renewed deforestation.
Chapter 6 of the ERMR includes a risk assessment, buffer tool, and a narrative linking Annex 1 safeguards and non-carbon benefits (NCBs). Baseline data, actual emissions, and major events such as El Niño, peat fires, or permit conflicts are the main components of the report.

Safeguard Implementation and ESDD

In this session, Mr. Deddy presented the Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) assessment, which assesses the program's compliance with World Bank safeguard standards for the 2022–2024 period. The ESDD analysis covers environmental risks, working conditions, biodiversity conservation, and indigenous community involvement.
The Head of Safeguards, Linda, added that monitoring is conducted twice a year and will focus more on peatland management to prevent fires and emissions. Meanwhile, Sahru from the safeguards team reported that the ESDD document has been revised and is ready to be submitted to the World Bank.

Technical Discussion and Follow-up

Meeting participants provided various input, including the importance of assessing the impact of production forest utilization permits under 5 hectares, potential conflicts with national strategic projects, and the need to monitor forest rehabilitation and conservation activities.
It was also agreed upon the importance of regular cross-sectoral meetings to expedite the resolution of technical issues and coordination with central ministries.

Data Monitoring and Supporting Technology

The Monitoring and Evaluation (Monev) Team explained the development of an OCM (Online Collaboration Management) portal for real-time data collection by all sectors and beneficiaries. The use of drones by Forest Management Units (KPH) was also proposed to improve the accuracy of rehabilitation area monitoring. All data will be stored for a minimum of seven years, as stipulated in the cooperation agreement with the World Bank.

Social Forestry and Oil Palm Management

The meeting also discussed the incentive mechanism for oil palm owners under the social forestry scheme. KPHs were urged to conduct strict guidance to prevent land use violations after the PS Decree is issued.
The issue of "jangka benah" (long-term improvement) in oil palm plantations received special attention because it requires realistic and equitable solutions on the ground.

Non-Carbon Benefits: More Than Just Emissions

In addition to emission reductions, Jambi also emphasizes non-carbon benefits (NCBs) such as improved local livelihoods, transparent forest governance, and biodiversity conservation. Supporting data for NCBs will be collected by the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team, supported by spatial imagery and field reports to ensure the accuracy of achievement claims.

Closing: Strengthening the Foundation for Results-Based Payments

The two-day coordination meeting resulted in several important agreements, ranging from data consistency to synchronization of ERMR, BSP, and safeguard documents. With cross-sector synergy and support from all stakeholders, Jambi Province affirms its commitment to becoming a model for implementing results-based emission reduction programs in Indonesia.

The agreed-upon steps are expected to form a strong foundation for the sustainability of the BIOCF program and accelerate the achievement of low-carbon development targets in Tanah Sepucuk Jambi Sembilan Lurah.

Jambi, September 1–2, 2025 — The IGRK MPV Directorate, together with the Monitoring, Assessment, and Reporting (MAR) Division of the BioCF-ISFL Jambi Province, held a two-day coordination meeting to discuss activity progress, system improvements, and capacity building to support the full implementation of the BioCF-ISFL Program in Jambi Province.

The meeting was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives from local governments, technical institutions, academics, and development partners. The meeting was divided into several sessions with topics including updates on IGRK & MAR progress, land cover map development, SOP revisions, the deforestation early detection system, and optimization of the BioCF ISFL Jambi information portal.

Strengthening the MAR System in the REDD+ Scheme

In the opening session, Agustina Kristin Handayani, S.T., presented the progress of IGRK & MAR activities under the BioCF-ISFL Program framework. She emphasized that MAR plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy of emissions data, monitoring interventions, and reporting on REDD+-based emission reduction achievements.

This program focuses on calculating emissions, strengthening the MRV (Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) system, and increasing transparency and accountability at the regional level. The steps leading to full implementation of the MAR system include preparation, trials, evaluation, and full implementation across all BioCF ISFL Jambi intervention areas.

"The progress of MAR implementation has proceeded according to plan, but acceleration is needed in terms of institutional strengthening and cross-agency data integration," she said. Support from both central and regional institutions is key to the successful implementation of the MAR system, which is planned to be implemented in stages until 2026.

Improving Land Cover Map Accuracy

Next, Tantri Janiatri, S.Hut., presented the progress of the documentation to improve the accuracy of the Jambi Province land cover map. The activity was carried out through three Quality Control (QC) stages in Bogor and Jambi between April and June 2025.

The validation process, which involved observing up to 100% of samples, successfully improved the accuracy of land cover data, reaching a consistency level of 99% in 2022. "This data is now suitable as a basis for low-emission development planning in Jambi," said Tantri.

The resulting documentation will serve as an important reference for the implementation of the BioCF ISFL and REDD+ programs. The next stage will involve the development of a more systematic documentation book with the support of the MAR and IPSDH teams.

MAR SOP Revision and Synchronization

In the next session, Dr. Asnelly Ridha Daulay, M.Nat.Res., Ecs., emphasized the need to revise and update the MAR Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). The revision aligns the carbon stock measurement method with the NFI version 2 developed by IPSDH.

He also emphasized the importance of documenting SOP implementation as evidence of field implementation and legalizing the document through a Regional Secretary's Decree to ensure formal validity for all relevant Regional Apparatus Organizations (OPDs).

Furthermore, the reporting frequency for monitoring activities, such as fire and deforestation observations, was agreed to be at least monthly, with daily hotspot monitoring during the dry season.

Timeline and Targets for the MAR Sector 2025–2026

Latifah, S.T., M.T., outlined the MAR sector's work plan for 2025–2026. The focus of activities in 2025 includes the full implementation of MAR, land cover data improvement (supported by the GCF), and strengthening the one map policy.

Ongoing activities include the preparation of the ERMR 1 document, RBP entity data, and fire early detection data. Improvements to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and SRN reports are still in the preparation stage.

In addition, plot sampling activities to improve land cover data are scheduled for November 2025–January 2026.

Early Detection System for Deforestation and Degradation

The second day began with a presentation by Dio Wisnu Mulyanda, S.T., on the development of an Early Detection System for deforestation and degradation in Jambi. He explained the use of the Google Earth Engine platform and the integration of the GLAD-L (Landsat) and RADD (Radar Sentinel-1) systems to detect forest cover loss quickly and accurately.

The combination of these two systems enables high-confidence early warnings, even in tropical forested areas with thick cloud cover. Dio also introduced a Normalized Burn Ratio (NBR)-based fire detection system and the use of Avenza Maps for offline field navigation.

Optimizing the ISFL Jambi BioCF Portal

Muhammad Danial Husairi, S.Hut., and Alif Rahmat Julianda, S.Kom., presented the progress and development plans for the biocf.jambiprov.go.id portal. Since its development in 2022, the portal has served as a hub for BioCF data information and reporting, covering emissions, forest cover, intervention areas, and drivers of deforestation.

Although now operational, the portal still requires socialization and optimization. Data management is carried out through an Excel template with public, private, and root access to ensure data security and consistency.

Participants emphasized the importance of making the portal more user-friendly with a standardized map display, regular updates, and integration with the smart patrol system in the national park area.

Geospatial Data Availability and Needs

Dian Martiyosa, S.T., highlighted the importance of basic and thematic geospatial data availability to support emissions calculations and cross-sector integration. He explained that the BioCF ISFL requires accurate, up-to-date, and integrated data, covering administrative boundaries, forest cover, peat areas, and socio-economic data.

However, challenges remain, including differences in methodology, limited access to permit data, and a lack of uniformity in data scales across agencies. He recommended the development of an integrated geoportal, increased human resource capacity, and regular updates of thematic data.

Identifying Additional Needs and Follow-up

Wilya Eka Sari, SP., closed the session with a presentation on additional needs to support the program's sustainability. The agenda included the development of a MAR 2026 activity timeline, a carbon accounting study for REDD+ jurisdictions, finalization of the 2020–2022 land cover map accuracy book, and the appointment of a data portal PIC.

Respondents provided several recommendations, including strengthening human resource capacity, standardizing maps, establishing data sharing policies, and establishing internal public communication mechanisms before forwarding them to the national complaints system.

Conclusions and Recommendations

This coordination meeting resulted in several strategic agreements. Participants agreed to:

Accelerate the full implementation of the MAR system.

Improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) in accordance with the latest methods.

Optimize the BioCF portal as a means of transparency and digital reporting.

Improve cross-sector coordination and geospatial data integration.

Ensure program sustainability through increased human resource capacity and sustainable funding.

Overall, this meeting represents a concrete step in strengthening the Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system in Jambi Province. Through synergy between the central and regional governments, and development partners, the implementation of the BioCF ISFL is expected to not only support carbon emission reduction but also strengthen transparent, accountable, and sustainable environmental governance.

Beneath the cool air of Kayu Aro, Kerinci, lies a swamp lake that holds more than just water and endemic birds: Rawa Bento, and a remarkable story of transformation.

Several years ago, Rawa Bento was known not for its beauty, but for its serenity, often marred by illegal activity. Bird hunting and fish poisoning were commonplace—an irony amidst a natural landscape that should be preserved.

But everything began to change when a group of local youth took the initiative. They formed the Rawa Bento Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis), with the spirit of protecting nature while creating new economic opportunities for local residents. With support from Kerinci Seblat National Park, the group began developing the swamp area into a conservation-based tourism destination.

Initially, they only had a rowboat to take tourists along the lake. Visitor numbers were very limited. Promotion was minimal: they simply distributed their contact information to several homestays in the Kayu Aro area. Surprisingly, it was foreign tourists who were the first to come. They sought tranquility, natural beauty, and an authentic experience—all of which Rawa Bento offers.

But a turning point came in 2021. Through the BioCarbon Fund (BioCF) program, the group received two motorboats. Access became easier, and the tourism experience became more comfortable. At the same time, they began actively using social media to introduce Rawa Bento to the wider community.

The results were remarkable. From just two to three visitors per week, Rawa Bento now receives an average of 70 visitors per week. Not only foreign tourists but also local tourists began arriving, attracted by the beauty of the swamp, which is also known as a habitat for rare wild birds.

More than just tourism, the presence of the Rawa Bento Tourism Group (Pokdarwis) has created a positive domino effect: environmentally destructive practices have disappeared, the community has gained additional income, and awareness of the importance of conservation has increased.

Today, Rawa Bento is proof that big changes can start with small steps. From the slow pace of a paddle on calm waters, to the sound of an engine that brings hope.

On the green slopes of Jangkat Village, Merangin, morning dawns with dew clinging to young coffee and cinnamon leaves. The wind carries the scent of wet earth and the hope that slowly begins to sprout, alongside the thousands of seedlings that now adorn the farmers' fields.

In the past, farmers in this village used to trek deep into the forest to find seedlings. If they were unlucky, they had to buy them at high prices—an added burden amidst the challenges of living on land that was often insufficiently fertile due to limited fertilizer and maintenance. However, everything began to change when the Merangin KPHP arrived with a rehabilitation program funded by BioCF ISFL.

In 2024, 25,000 seedlings were distributed to Jangkat Village. These seedlings included coffee, cinnamon, avocado, and several other commodities. This assistance wasn't just a figure on paper; it came in the form of young plants that now reforest the community's land.

"We used to have to get seeds from the forest, and even then, they wouldn't necessarily grow well. Now we have high-quality seeds, free of charge, and we also provide fertilizer," said one farmer as he cleared weeds around his two-month-old coffee plants.

This program is aimed at farmers with a maximum of two hectares of land, with the total seed distribution area in a single village not exceeding 50 hectares. This approach not only supports smallholder farmers but also maintains a balance so that rehabilitation is sustainable and controlled.

In addition to seeds and fertilizer, each participating farmer also receives a planting incentive worth IDR 2,000,000. This money provides additional encouragement and helps meet basic needs during the initial planting period, which is usually not yet productive.

However, most importantly, the shift in mindset that is slowly starting to develop with these young plants. While previously clearing forests was considered the only way to expand land and increase yields, now farmers are realizing that preserving the forest while increasing productivity on existing land is a wiser approach.

"If our land used to be under-yielding, we would clear the forest. But now, just take care of what we have. Plant good seeds, apply fertilizer, and God willing, the results will be better," said another farmer, with a confident smile rarely seen recently.

Jangkat Village is now a reflection of the hope that has emerged from a program that directly addresses the root causes of problems: access, the economy, and the environment. Slowly, this village is planting more than just trees—they are planting the future.