In the short space of 30 years Sumatera has been exploited for its natural resources, especially oil and timber. At the current rate of destruction it is difficult to imagine what it will be like in 10 years. The population of Sumatera has increased rapidly with the increasing demand for labour. The islands infrastructure is way overloaded presently, roads congested, power grid unable to meet demand, housing in very short supply… etc.

There appears to be little regard at the local level for renewable methods. Flat land once covered with impenetrable jungle is stripped, and then lost into the rivers as silt. No evidence of erosion minimisation at all. Factories discharge toxic waste into the streets and rivers, effluent forms a thick skin on most bodies of water.

At a government level the right words are being spoken, but the pockets just get fatter.