PT Pulau Sambu has been Designated as a National Vital Industrial Object
Based on a decree from the Ministry of Industry, Sambu Group, through its business units PT Pulau Sambu in Guntung and PT Pulau Sambu in Kuala Enok, has been officially designated as a National Vital Industrial Object (OVNI). This designation recognizes the strategic role of PT Pulau Sambu in maintaining national economic stability, improving the welfare of the people, and supporting Indonesia's food security.
As a Domestic Investment Company (PMDN) that has been operating consistently in Indragiri Hilir Regency, Riau Province since 1967, PT Pulau Sambu produces various coconut-derived products such as coconut milk, coconut oil, coconut cooking oil, and coconut flour. These are considered basic necessities, and the continuity of their distribution is vital. The company adds value to strategic natural resources.
The company transforms coconuts into high-value-added goods, bringing prosperity to the local community. PT Pulau Sambu is the largest overall off-taker of coconuts in Indragiri Hilir, which is the largest coconut-producing regency in Indonesia. "This designation is a source of pride for Indragiri Hilir because a company operating in the territory of the 'Thousand Canals' regency has successfully gained recognition and trust from the state. This is also a mandate for PT Pulau Sambu to continue contributing to national economic resilience and the welfare of the local community," explained Dwianto Arif Wibowo, Corporate Communication Manager for Sambu Group, on Friday (August 1, 2025).
PT Pulau Sambu fulfills essential needs for public welfare and controls the livelihood of many people. By employing more than 10,000 workers and being the only large-scale industry still operating in the Guntung and Kuala Enok areas, the company's presence has created a new economic ecosystem, spurred the growth of supporting industries, and improved the overall standard of living for the community. The company's social contributions to its operational areas are substantial; PT Pulau Sambu is actively involved in the development of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, places of worship, schools, and health facilities.
In an area with minimal infrastructure and limited budget support, the company's presence is a key pillar of regional development. The operational locations of PT Pulau Sambu are in 3T areas (Disadvantaged, Outermost, and Frontier), which directly border the international shipping lane of the Malacca Strait. This geographical situation presents unique challenges, including limited infrastructure, difficult transportation access, and potential threats from illegal activities such as smuggling, black market trade, and cross-border drug trafficking. "The company is in a region with a high vulnerability to transnational crime. In such conditions, legal certainty and security protection are essential so that the company can continue to carry out its strategic role, not just for the region but also for the country," Dwianto Arif added.
Nationally, Sambu Group is also known as the largest exporter of coconut-derived products from Indonesia and a major player in the domestic coconut product supply market. The company has opened up access to global markets and generates foreign exchange for the country from its exports. The company's compliance with tax regulations and state policies is also a significant contribution to state revenue. Therefore, a guarantee of legal protection and security support is a crucial prerequisite for the company's operations to run smoothly and sustainably.
With its designation as a National Vital Industrial Object, PT Pulau Sambu hopes to continue strengthening its role in developing Indonesia's coconut industry and maintaining national economic resilience from the frontier, remote, and disadvantaged regions. "Because of its strategic role, PT Pulau Sambu will receive special attention in terms of security and protection from the state. Therefore, it has been designated as a National Vital Industrial Object," Dwianto Arif concluded. One of the initial implementations is the installation of National Vital Industrial Object signs at strategic locations around the company's sites. This is intended to raise awareness among all stakeholders and serve as a joint effort to oversee the company's implementation as a National Vital Industrial Object.
