The once crystal blue waters surrounding Kabaena in Indonesia have turned murky brown, causing the local marine life to disappear. The Indigenous Bajau community, who traditionally relied on the sea, now face challenges as their way of life is disrupted. The rapid expansion of the mining industry in Indonesia, driven by the global demand for materials like nickel, cobalt, and bauxite, has had severe consequences on communities like Kabaena.
Local fishers have seen a decline in their catches due to runoff sediment from mining activities polluting the waters. Deforestation caused by mining companies has destroyed over 3,700 hectares of forest on Kabaena, impacting the environment and livelihoods. Farmers cultivating sugar cane, palm, and clove trees have reported decreased crop yields and tainted water sources.
