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<\/p>\nDian Atma Sitanggang, APRIL\u2019s Senior Lab Researcher for Fibre R&D, has been part of the company\u2019s evolving research landscape since 2004. When she first joined the Fibre R&D team, the operation was just beginning. At that time, there was no dedicated lab building, limited tools, and few formal procedures in place.<\/p>\n
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As a young and aspiring researcher, she embarked on an intensive training programme to deepen her knowledge of soil, leaf, and fertiliser analysis. \u201cI knew deep down that with the right training, I will have the capability to use R&D to contribute to the company,\u201d says Dian.<\/p>\n
Today, the work of the Fibre R&D Analytical Lab team, which Dian leads, plays a vital role in enhancing fibre productivity and supporting APRIL\u2019s long-term sustainability goals. Dian leads a team of 15 scientists who help APRIL\u2019s efforts to meet its\u00a0APRIL2030 target<\/a>\u00a0of increasing fibre plantation productivity by 50%. As of 2024 , APRIL has achieved a 12% increase. \u201cI lead my team in conducting research to map and assess soil conditions, understand how soil characteristics affect productivity, and optimize fertiliser use,\u201d said Dian. \u201cOur research is essential for shaping plantation strategies, improving soil recovery, and increasing field efficiency.\u201d<\/p>\n A significant milestone in her journey was when her team received the 2023 Gold Kaizen Award. \u201cIt was a prestigious honour for our team,\u201d said Dian. \u201cThe award recognised our successful implementation of continuous improvement initiatives in lab operations – enhancing efficiency, streamlining processes, and strengthening quality management.\u201d<\/p>\n Dian’s vision wasn’t just about boosting the lab’s capabilities; she was also deeply committed to empowering her team, especially women. Since 2007, women have made up over half of her lab team: a significant achievement, given that women represent less than 20% of the global forestry workforce, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO ). This also aligns with APRIL2030’s Inclusive Progress commitment, particularly its aim to boost female representation throughout the company. As of 2024, women constitute 18.1% of APRIL’s workforce, on track to achieve the 20% target. Furthermore, female leadership has seen a rise, now accounting for 11.9% of all leadership positions across the organisation.<\/p>\n Dian’s leadership philosophy centres on active involvement. “If you are trying to teach them, they will remember. But when you involve them, they will learn,” she states. She actively mentors the next generation of women leaders, providing them with opportunities to present their work and take ownership of their growth. “I see myself in them – that\u2019s why I try so hard to help them achieve their highest potential,” she explains.<\/p>\n