Mission Completed

In a demonstration of commitment and teamwork, 28 employee volunteers from various business units across the region converged in Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia, for the latest iteration of the Group’s flagship CSR initiative, Meet a Need.

The team’s primary objectives were to support marine and environmental health through reef restoration and the construction of beehive shelters. This ambitious project saw volunteers channel their efforts into two main areas: marine ecosystem support and local community engagement.

A significant part of the mission involved building substrate for coral transplantation and creating bee boxes to provide safe havens for local stingless bee populations. The importance of these activities cannot be overstated as coral reefs are vital for marine biodiversity, while bees play a crucial role in pollination and local agriculture.

The volunteers, including those trained and authorised for diving, went beyond surface-level efforts to clean existing coral substrates and facilitate coral transplantation. These actions are crucial for rejuvenating the marine ecosystem and ensuring its long-term health.

The team’s efforts also extended beyond environmental work. The final days of the mission included a visit to the local village, where the team gained insights into the community’s livelihood and climate vulnerabilities. They learned about traditional processes such as the distillation of palmyra sap to produce arrack, a local alcoholic beverage, and the roasting of cashew nuts—a valuable local craft.

This visit underscored the interconnectedness of environmental health and community well-being, providing volunteers with a deeper understanding of the region’s challenges and the importance of their contributions.

The initiative culminated with a collaborative effort between the volunteers and the Tulamben Dive Guide Association to complete the coral transplantation, while non-divers undertook a beach cleanup, further reinforcing the Group’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Bali.

This mission in Tulamben was truly a testament to the power of collective effort and the positive impact that dedicated individuals can make in addressing environmental and community needs.