Practice in the use of drone technology with APDI. Photo: USAID SEGAR

Sangatta – Environmental concerns and land usage consistently intertwine with spatial dimensions. Nevertheless, spatial studies not only serve to analyze spatial problems but also to manage natural resources in a non-destructive manner to the surrounding environment. In this study, optimizing remote sensing technology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is pivotal for gathering data on land cover, land use, regional mapping, and exploring natural resources with a specific level of detail. Hence, acquiring proficiency in this technology is vital for spatial planners tasked with overseeing and harnessing the resources within the landscape. With the support of data and information analysis capabilities, the anticipation is that this technology can be effectively applied to address environmental concerns and facilitate land use management.

From December 11 to 13, 2023, East Kutai District Government, facilitated by the USAID Sustainable Environmental Governance Across Regions (SEGAR), organized a Basic Training on Remote sensing/GIS and Drone Operation for area mapping in East Kutai District. The training was attended by participants consisting of staff from the Regional Planning and Development Agency (Bappeda) of East Kutai, District Environment Office, and District Office of Plantation. The participants' profiles included staff from regional apparatus organizations with tasks related to environmental or land supervision.

By inviting the Indonesian Drone Pilot Association (APDI) East Kalimantan Region as expert partner, participants engaged in a three-day program encompassing both theoretical and hands-on sessions. The focus was on the regulations and principles governing the operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and drones, procedural aspects, and the conversion of geospatial data into map formats. Kicking off the training, Dr. Ismail Fahmy Almadi, the Regional Chairman of APDI in East Kalimantan, underscored the significance of this training for regional apparatus organizations. Its role is crucial in supporting their responsibilities and functions related to overseeing the environment and natural resources in East Kutai District. Dr. Almadi also highlighted that, thanks to advancing technology, drones are now instrumental tools for acquiring data essential in regional development planning.

"With advancing technology, drones are now used as tools to obtain data for regional development planning. With participants from the East Kutai District Government, it is hoped that they can continue to certification as drone pilots to assist other regional apparatus organizations in need of drone mapping. East Kutai District can become a pioneer region for the formation of a drone pilot community from a government or public service background," said Ismail.

During the final day of the training, participants honed their skills by flying drones and handling data collected from drone flights. This data was subsequently processed to create map and vector layouts. Marlin Sundu, a participant from the Department of Environment, took the opportunity to share his insights and convey messages based on his experience with remote sensing technology training.

"I represent my colleagues in expressing gratitude to USAID SEGAR for their support, enabling us to participate in this training. As an environmental supervisor, I feel that this training will greatly help us optimize our performance," said Marlin.