PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) together with PT Putra Perkasa Abadi (PPA) officially launched the 'Lingga Smart Greenhouse for Resilient Optimized Welfare' (GROW) program in Lingga Village, Lawang Kidul District, Muara Enim Regency. This initiative introduces three modern greenhouse units integrating digital agricultural technology based on the Internet of Things (IoT).
This system is designed to automate crucial aspects of melon cultivation, ranging from nutrient regulation and irrigation management to controlling the plant's acidity levels (pH). The use of greenhouse facilities also provides maximum protection for crops from extreme weather exposure and pest attacks, which directly impacts the uniformity and quality of the harvest.
This program is managed by the Lingga Youth Modern Farmer Group and focuses on developing premium melon varieties such as Sunny, Petra Funny, and The Blues. With a capacity of 860 planting holes per unit, this area is projected to produce 16 to 20 tons of melons annually, while opening opportunities for Lingga Village to become a leading fruit commodity hub in South Sumatra.
Division Head of HCGA & External Relations at PPA, Sunaryo, revealed that this step is part of community empowerment efforts. Through the GROW program, the youth in the region are given access to skills training in technology-based agriculture that is relevant to current industry needs.
Echoing this sentiment, Mining Sub-Division Head of PTBA, Suratman, emphasized that the provision of these facilities aims to boost community welfare through sustainable innovation. PPA also ensured its commitment to providing intensive mentoring from the seedling stage to harvest, ensuring that local farmers can operate the system independently in the future.
