Pandan. PT Agincourt Resources (PTAR), operator of the Martabe gold mine in Batangtoru, held free cataract surgery at Pandan Hospital in Central Tapanuli Regency.

A company community representative stated that the free cataract surgery program, titled “Open Your Eyes to See the Beauty of the World,” took place over two days, Saturday to Sunday (October 18-19, 2025).

“For Central Tapanuli, this is the first time it has been held. We are targeting 150 cataract-affected eyes during the two-day event,” the representative said during the activity.

The free cataract surgery program is a tangible corporate contribution to improve community quality of life, especially for those with limited access.

“This program is an integral part of the company’s sustainability strategy and has been held since 2011,” the representative added.

Through the cataract surgery, the company aims to help people regain their eyesight, enabling them to be productive and independent, while also creating a positive impact for their families and surrounding communities.

“This year we are again partnering with an eye hospital from Medan that has experience performing cataract surgeries since 2005,” they said.

A medical director from the partnering eye hospital explained that cataracts are characterized by several symptoms, including blurred vision, frequent changes in eyeglass prescription, difficulty seeing clearly at night, and seeing halos around light sources.

Jobs involving frequent sun exposure also increase cataract risk. Patients typically also experience faded colors and double vision.

“For cataract surgery, we use manual small incision cataract surgery technique. The procedure is brief, taking about 10 to 15 minutes. Recovery time is generally about 1 month,” the medical director stated.

The director explained that for younger patients or children, they assess whether the patient can cooperate during surgery.

“If they cannot cooperate, then general anesthesia is required and that might need to be performed in Medan. The entire process will be our responsibility,” they said.

They revealed they have encountered many children undergoing cataract surgery. “They are our children who need our help,” they noted.

A local deputy regent appreciated the free cataract surgery initiative by PTAR and expressed hope that the Martabe Gold Mine company would continue collaborating with the local government in the future.

“If possible, it shouldn’t be just cataract surgery, but other surgical procedures for healthcare services needed by the community could also be assisted by PTAR,” they said.

A hospital director expressed gratitude to PTAR for conducting the free cataract surgery, noting that all facilities were complete and there were no obstacles.

A health agency representative also expressed gratitude that PTAR has contributed to Central Tapanuli in public health services, particularly cataract surgery.

“We hope that patients undergoing cataract surgery today can look forward again or see the beautiful bright world, feeling fairness for all,” they said.

On the first day of the surgery program, out of 55 registered patients, 48 eyes were successfully operated on. Several patients could not undergo surgery due to glaucoma, damaged corneas, and hearing impairment. Meanwhile, two patients were referred to Medan for special treatment requiring general anesthesia.

Pandan Hospital

Pandan Hospital is a modern private medical facility located in Antipolo, Philippines, which began operations in 1999. It was established to provide comprehensive healthcare services to the growing communities in the Rizal province. The hospital is known for its patient-centered care and has expanded its services and facilities over the years to meet the region’s healthcare needs.

Martabe gold mine

The Martabe Gold Mine is a large-scale gold and silver mining operation located in North Sumatra, Indonesia. It began commercial production in 2012 and is one of the country’s most significant gold mines. The mine’s history is rooted in the exploration and development of the mineral-rich Batang Toru region.

Batangtoru

Batangtoru is a district located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its lush rainforests and biodiversity. It gained international attention in 2013 with the discovery of a new orangutan species, the Tapanuli orangutan, found only in this region. The area has a history of human settlement and agriculture, but its recent significance is tied to conservation efforts for this critically endangered great ape.

Central Tapanuli Regency

Central Tapanuli Regency is an administrative region located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, established in 2020 as a result of the division of the former North Tapanuli Regency. The area is historically significant as part of the Batak cultural heartland, home to the Batak Toba people and their rich traditions, including traditional houses and ancient stone graves.

Medan

Medan is the capital and largest city of North Sumatra, Indonesia. It grew from a small village into a major economic hub during the late 19th century, largely due to the plantation industry for commodities like tobacco and rubber established by Dutch colonial rule. The city’s history is reflected in its diverse cultural mix and its well-preserved colonial architecture, such as the iconic Maimun Palace.