MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, PEKANBARU – The Minister of Environment and Forestry Siti Nurbaya Bakar officially launched the Eco-Riparian program at Universitas Muhammadiyah Riau (UMRI) on Monday, September 30.
The Eco-Riparian program aims to manage waste and river systems, along with other water bodies. It also involves creating green infrastructure for wastewater management and serves as a hub for community empowerment and education.
In her speech, Siti Nurbaya highlighted that Eco-Riparian addresses household waste issues directly. She pointed out that the program is crucial because it connects with people’s daily lives and relates to social and cultural aspects.
“I believe this initiative is significant. It directly engages with the community and addresses household waste issues while fulfilling important ecological and social-cultural roles,” said Siti Nurbaya.
She further explained that Eco-Riparian will become a center for economic growth and environmental enhancement. Siti Nurbaya hoped that the program would benefit not only students but also the local community.
“This program will inspire students and the wider UMRI community, as well as visitors interested in entrepreneurship and environmental education,” said Siti Nurbaya.
During the inauguration, the Minister also toured various facilities, including the waste collection pond, the wastewater treatment plant (IPAL), and UMRI Coffee House. While there, she participated in a tree-planting ceremony.
Meanwhile, UMRI Rector Saidul Amin thanked the Minister for her visit. He hoped that environmental awareness would extend beyond the university community to the Muhammadiyah branches (PCM).
“We have eagerly awaited the Minister’s visit for some time. In her previous visit, we initiated collaboration with Muhammadiyah through the Environmental Care Ambassador program, enabling us to appoint leaders from Muhammadiyah branches across Riau,” he said.
