RELIGION AND CORPORATION: A Study of Huria Kristen Batak Protestan (HKBP) and its Engagement With PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL) in Environmental Sustainability
Musdodi Frans Jaswin Manalu, Dr. Leonard Chrysostomos Epafras; Dr. Dicky Sofjan
2024 | Tesis | S2 Agama dan Lintas Budaya
The relationship between Huria Kristen Batak Protestan (HKBP) and PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL) is a case study of the complex interplay between corporate interests, environmental activism, and religious ethics. Since its establishment in 1983 as PT Indorayon Inti Utama (IIU), TPL is involved in community struggles over environmental degradation, human rights violations, and land abuse. HKBP initially opposes TPL’s operations due to its negative environmental impacts, but government intervention, changes in company policy, and community engagement by TPL diminish HKBP's advocacy efforts. This research analyzes the environmental and social impacts of TPL activities, explores how these issues shape HKBP attitudes and actions, and investigates the reasons for the reduction in HKBP advocacy efforts and its implications for environmental sustainability and social justice. Through a comprehensive analysis of their relationship, this research contributes to the understanding of the dynamics between religious and corporate institutions. It highlights the moral obligation of religious institutions in promoting environmental sustainability and social justice.
The results show that HKBP and TPL relations are influenced by government intervention, changes in corporate policy, and local community dynamics. Although HKBP initially opposes TPL, their relationship changes due to TPL's adoption of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and support provided to some communities. HKBP is also influenced by CSR programs and material support provided by TPL to the local church, resulting in a reduction in HKBP's opposition to TPL and changes in the church's views on environmental issues. The research method involves thematic analysis, semi-structured interviews, and field studies, with data triangulation to validate the findings. This research shows that religious organizations can facilitate social movements and mitigate the negative impacts of environmental management companies. HKBP is a case of a religious organization that is initially successful in opposing TPL but eventually loses its position due to various factors. Therefore, the past relationship between HKBP and TPL could inspire other religious organizations to advocate the environment.
Kata Kunci : Huria Kristen Batak Protestan, Toba Pulp Lestari, Environmental Sustainability, Corporate Social Responsibility