Siberut holds a special place in the global conservation arena. The incredible biodiversity of the island has earned it the nickname of the 'Madagascar' or the 'Galapagos' of Asia. The 403,500 hectare island was separated from mainland of Sumatra around 500, 000 years ago. Over time, this geographic isolation resulted in the endemic flora and fauna and rich biodiversity that Siberut has become known for. It also resulted in an exceptional ecological landscape.

Siberut is the ancestral home of the Mentawai people, one of the remaining indigenous peoples in South East Asia. Mentawai people inherite neo-lithic culture characterized by egalitarian system, without political leader. Mentawai people are among few indigenous people that conserve ther original culture with little influence megalithicum or Hindu-Budha culture.
.

Among the few indigenous tribes remaining in Southeast Asia, the Mentawai tribe follows egalitarian social patterns reminiscent of the neolithic era and its cultural heritage reflects the strong interaction between people and nature. The combination of natural wealth and cultural uniqueness make Siberut the focus for biodiversity conservation on a global level. In recognition of this status, Siberut was designated as a biosphere reserve. 

Perkumpulan Siberut Hijau, or PASIH, is a non-governmental organization which strives to achieve the protection of biodiversity coupled with sustainable development for the island of Siberut. PASIH believes that a balance between conservation and development is the only way to ensure a positive future for the people and the natural environment of Siberut. To achieve this balance, PASIH promotes sustainable natural resource management that respects social, ecological and economic values.

PASIH was formed in 2007 by local people with a strong commitment to the preservation of Siberut’s rich natural and cultural heritage. The majority of the staff of PASIH were born and raised on the island and have been actively engaged in Siberut’s development throughout their lives. PASIH has developed a broad range of social networks and a substantive understanding the complex cultural particularities of the communities of Siberut. Understanding the local context is an essential element of all PASIH conservation initiatives. With over a decade of experience in the conservation movement in Siberut, which first developed in the 1990s, PASIH has been working with communities across Siberut to promote conservation agendas at the local level. PASIH believes that no matter how small the initiative, local voices and actions can influence the national and even global conservation agenda.

In addition, PASIH plays a role in promoting the uniqueness and distinctiveness of Siberut on the global platform. PASIH also plays a role bridging civil society with local and national government, international organizations, policy and decision makers. PASIH is active in regional conservation forums in order to support the campaign for Siberut’s conservation.