In order to commemorate World Environment Day, the Youth Act Kalimantan community held a real action in the form of planting endemic Kalimantan trees in the Youth Act Kalimantan Ecology Center area located in Tangkiling, Palangka Raya.
This area is not just any location, it used to be a peat forest that experienced a major fire in 2015. Now, the area is being restored and developed as a community-based environmental education and conservation center, with the hope that it can become an open learning space for the young generation of Kalimantan.
In this activity, three types of endemic Kalimantan trees, namely Pulai (Alstonia scholaris), Balangeran (Shorea balangeran), and Meranti (Shorea spp.) are planted. All three were chosen because they have an important ecological role in maintaining the balance of peat soil and supporting biodiversity.
This action was carried out by walking along a peat forest path with muddy terrain and calf-high water, while carrying tree seedlings to the planting point. Although the conditions were quite challenging, our enthusiasm remained high. We worked together in the planting process, while clearing the land from branches and bushes around the area.
Not only a tree planting action, this activity also became a momentum for environmental education, visual documentation, and sharing experiences in the field. The documentation process was carried out through photos and videos, which were part of a campaign to raise public awareness of the importance of peat ecosystems.
After the planting activity, we gathered in a simple wooden hut in the middle of the forest. This moment was used for reflection, sharing stories, and strengthening youth networks in the environmental care movement.
This activity is real evidence that recovery and conservation efforts can start from empowered local communities. Youth Act Kalimantan is committed to making this area not only a place for planting trees, but also a space for learning, taking action, and inspiring the younger generation to love and protect the forests of Kalimantan.
