Multisectoral Collaboration Strengthens Conservation of Cibeleng Sub-Watershed in Cianjur Regency

CIANJUR, P4W IPB University — A collective conservation action was carried out in Kebonpeuteuy Village, Gekbrong District, on Monday, January 27, 2026, as a tangible effort to restore the Cibeleng Sub-Watershed, which is a vital part of the Citarum Watershed. This initiative, facilitated by the Cianjur Regency Watershed Management Coordination Forum (FKPDAS), employs a multisectoral collaborative approach involving the government, academics from IPB University, and the private sector, while placing the community as the primary actors. The Cibeleng Sub-Watershed itself plays a strategic role as a water recharge area and a protection zone for the Cianjur Groundwater Basin; however, its ability to absorb water has declined over the last two decades due to changes in land cover.

The integrated conservation model developed in this upstream area focuses not only on ecological restoration through the enrichment of economically valuable hardwood vegetation but also on the construction of physical infrastructure such as rorak (silt pits) and infiltration wells. This infrastructure is designed to retain surface runoff to prevent floods and landslides, and it has already proven successful in reviving springs that had been dry since the year 2000. Mentorship from IPB University since 2022 ensures that all interventions are conducted participatively and based on scientific research.

The sustainability of this program is strengthened through the Payment for Environmental Services (PES/PJLH) scheme involving the private sector, with PT Tirta Investama serving as the pioneer company in this partnership. Additionally, appreciation was given to several other companies, such as PT Aurora World, PT Sinar Budi Intraco, and PT Notos, for their contributions. The Vice Regent of Cianjur, Ramzi, emphasized the importance of this “green collaboration” as a sustainable movement to ensure community welfare, marked by the signing of new cooperation agreements for 2026 with a number of environmental service utilization companies.