PANGKALPINANG -- PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk remains committed to environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation. One of its latest initiatives is a collaboration with the Bangka Belitung Endemic Fish Foundation, also known as The Tanggokers, to support research and the publication of the book Biodiversity of Endemic Wild Betta Fish of Bangka Island.
The book, Biodiversity of Endemic Wild Betta Fish of Bangka Island, explores the richness of three endemic wild betta species found on Bangka Island: Betta burdigala, Betta chloropharynx, and Betta schalleri, all of which are currently classified as threatened species on the IUCN Red List.
The publication provides comprehensive information on each species, including their characteristics, distribution, and natural habitats. It is expected to serve as both a scientific reference and an educational resource to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting these endemic fish and preserving their ecosystems.
Swarlanda Gusti, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Bangka Belitung Endemic Fish Foundation, explained that PT TIMAH supported the development of the book by facilitating research activities and the construction of mini ponds used for the conservation and propagation of Bangka Island's endemic fish species.
"Thanks to PT TIMAH's support, we have been able to strengthen both our research and conservation efforts for endemic fish. This collaboration represents an important step toward preserving Bangka Belitung's unique biodiversity," Swarlanda said while presenting the book to PT TIMAH on Friday (July 3, 2026).
Swarlanda hopes the book will be distributed more widely across Indonesia so that more people can learn about Bangka Island's unique endemic fish and be encouraged to participate in protecting them.
"We are truly grateful that PT TIMAH has been willing to collaborate with and support our foundation. We hope this partnership and synergy will continue so that efforts to conserve endemic fish in Bangka Belitung can continue to grow," he said.
The Bangka Belitung Endemic Fish Foundation is also preparing a follow-up publication that will document the various local names used by the people of Bangka for different fish species. The publication is expected to enrich the region's biodiversity literature while preserving local knowledge that has been passed down through generations. (*)
