Minister Jumhur Hidayat promotes ecological repentance at Lake Toba

Indonesian Minister of Environment Moh Jumhur Hidayat has launched the ‘Ecological Repentance’ movement, beginning with activities at Lake Toba to restore the local ecosystem and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In collaboration with the State Electricity Company (PLN) Workers Union, the initiative included an electric vehicle tour from Medan to Parapat, the release of endemic fish species into Lake Toba, and tree planting efforts. The program also involves the inauguration of a public electric vehicle charging station (SPKLU).

Minister Hidayat emphasized that environmental restoration requires collective responsibility from individuals, corporations, and the state. He called for meaningful action rather than superficial metrics, urging organizations to move beyond merely counting seedlings or seminars and instead focus on measurable environmental impacts. The movement is intended to start in North Sumatra before expanding nationally.