Enggano Island could Sink if erosion Continues

Rafli Kaitora, a customary chief from Enggano, about 100 kilometers southwest of Bengkulu, said the island will sink if nothing was done to stop the land mass from eroding. About one square kilometer of sand and rocks are mined every year to supply construction projects. "Abrasion follows growing deforestation of the island," Rafli said last week.

The prospect of the 40-square-kilometer island 's disappearance has alarmed locals. Rafli blames outsiders for ignoring traditional rules and customs and cutting trees indiscriminately. He said they will be forced to replanti the trees. Sadly, he added, traditional rules and customs were increasingly losing their influence power because the government does not recognize local indigenous groups.

January 13, 2015