The Toba Batak – Fighting for environmental justice (1988- 2003) (book review)

Title :- The Toba Batak – Fighting for environmental justice (1988- 2003)
By :- Abdul Wahib Situmorang
Published :- Walhi (2005) Paperback (160 pages)
Outline;- The book tries to explain how and why the environmental movement was successful in closing the PT. Inti Indorayon Utama (IIU) pulp and rayon mill in the Toba Batak ethnic area of North Sumatra. The initial random violent anti development movement became focused under the guidance from the National environment movement of Walhi. The protest developed into the courts, where Walhi lost, as the courts decided that Walhi itself had not suffered as a direct impact of the mill, Walhi did not prove the mill had polluted the environment and Wahli could not represent local people who suffered from the negative impact of the mill operation. More violent reactions and regrouping where the protest gradually gained momentum, with some elites giving moral support. Eventually it became a matter of Presidential politics. A good book for beginner activists.
• “From the Sugapa “old women” who fought to get their land back from IIU, Toba Batak movement activists learnt to involve women and children in their demonstrations. The police were more hesitant to use violence against women and children. The tactic also worked with government officials who were suppose to protect members of the society…”