Turning Movement into Meaningful Change
In an inspiring fusion of sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and community empowerment, OCBC Indonesia has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to education and environmental sustainability. Through its SPARTA program, the company has successfully rebuilt the Syamsul Huda Early Childhood Education School in North Lombok using eco-bricks made from plastic waste, transforming lives while reducing carbon emissions.
A School Rebuilt, A Community Renewed
The initiative, launched between October 28 and November 17, 2024, was more than just a corporate social responsibility (CSR) project—it was a movement. OCBC employees, known as TAYTB Warriors, collectively covered an astonishing 22,757 kilometers through activities like walking, running, cycling, and swimming. Every kilometer contributed was converted into funds to rebuild the school, which had been left in ruins following the devastating 2018 Lombok earthquake.
This project was a response to an alarming reality: almost 50% of elementary school classrooms in NTB Province were in poor condition during the 2022/2023 academic year, according to education statistics. Before OCBC’s intervention, the children of Syamsul Huda had no choice but to attend classes in makeshift shelters and mosques.
With the help of Happy Hearts Indonesia, OCBC rebuilt the school using eco-bricks—plastic waste compressed into durable blocks—to address both educational and environmental challenges in one powerful initiative.
Innovation and Impact: The Eco-Brick Revolution
By incorporating eco-bricks into the construction process, OCBC not only provided a safe, sustainable learning environment for young students but also significantly reduced waste and carbon emissions. The results were remarkable:
- 3.3 tons of plastic waste recycled
- 7.7 tons of carbon emissions reduced
- Two new classrooms, a toilet, furniture, and a play area built
This innovative approach showcases how corporations can blend CSR with sustainability, turning environmental challenges into solutions for pressing social issues.
Empowering Employees to Create Lasting Change
At the heart of OCBC’s SPARTA initiative is its belief that every small action leads to a big impact. The program not only encourages employee wellness through physical activities but also instills a sense of purpose. Employees didn’t just donate money; they actively participated in creating positive change.
Julie Anwar, Head of Human Resources at OCBC, emphasized the significance of employee involvement:
"Through the SPARTA activities, we want to demonstrate that small steps can lead to significant impacts. This year, our employees exceeded our 18,000-kilometer target, proving that their dedication can drive real transformation."
Beyond physical activity, employees also contributed by donating books, toys, and school supplies, further enriching the lives of the children in North Lombok.
Voices of Impact: The Joy of Giving Back
Many OCBC employees found the experience deeply fulfilling. Jenny Hartanto, National Network Head at OCBC, expressed her enthusiasm:
"After participating in the SPARTA program for two years in a row, I am thrilled that OCBC supports us in doing what we love while contributing to society. Running is my passion, and knowing that my steps helped rebuild a school makes this experience even more rewarding. I can't wait to participate again next year!"
This employee-driven engagement is a testament to OCBC’s culture of sustainability and social impact.
A Legacy of Sustainability and Social Good
OCBC’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop here. Last year, the company’s inaugural SPARTA program led to the planting of 5,000 Rhizophora mucronata mangrove trees across multiple locations. These mangroves have helped:
- Combat coastal erosion
- Create a habitat for marine life
- Protect shorelines from environmental degradation
- Absorb carbon and support biodiversity
This continued focus on eco-friendly solutions and community upliftment solidifies OCBC’s position as a leader in responsible corporate citizenship.
OCBC: Banking on a Better Future
Founded in 1941, OCBC has evolved into a major player in the Indonesian banking industry, with over 207 office networks in 54 cities and a strong digital presence. The bank is one of the highest-rated financial institutions in Indonesia, holding a AAA(idn)/stable rating from PT Fitch Ratings Indonesia.
However, OCBC’s greatest strength isn’t just in finance—it’s in its commitment to people and the planet. Through SPARTA and other CSR initiatives, OCBC is proving that businesses can be powerful forces for good, merging profit with purpose.
Conclusion: A Model for Corporate Sustainability
OCBC’s SPARTA program is more than just a CSR initiative—it is a model for corporate sustainability that combines employee engagement, environmental action, and community development into a single powerful movement.
By rebuilding schools with eco-bricks, reducing plastic waste, and fostering a culture of giving back, OCBC has set an example for businesses worldwide on how to integrate sustainability into corporate values and operations.
- What if every company took similar steps?
- What if sustainability and social impact became the norm in corporate culture?
- How can your organization make a difference?
The answers lie in initiatives like SPARTA—where small steps lead to monumental change.
What are your thoughts on OCBC’s innovative approach to sustainability? Let’s discuss below!
Thank you for reading!
