Hello from the Heart of Borneo!

As we take stock of our concern for preserving the nature that is also home to local communities, we also want to share information on how we are doing our part to protect the environment. This July issue will feature our efforts in preserving the transboundary landscape of Bornean Elephants to protect their status from the threat of extinction.

We are delighted to report that Betung Kerihun National Park, Danau Sentarum National Park and Kapuas Hulu District in West Kalimantan have officially been gazetted as new biosphere reserves by UNESCO, an international recognition that encourages us to continue our work in preserving Bumi Uncak Kapuas from human destruction.

In Central Kalimantan, we are also supporting Forest Management Units to conduct value assessments of rattan, non-timber forest products, as well as supporting additional income for local communities.

Read also the inspiring story of Anye Apuy, the Great Customary Chief of Dayak Kenyah Bahau Hulu, who passed away in June. His life of devotion to protecting forests and securing the welfare of his people in North Kalimantan will be sorely missed by us and the communities there.

There are still many things we can do together to save this earth. The Heart of Borneo region is one of the last places in the world we are fighting to save the environment as it plays a critical role in building resilience to climate change. It will be great to actively take part in protecting and preserving our environment to support the lives of existing species and future generations.

Iwan Wibisono
Heart of Borneo Leader