16Mar/26

Learning English, Protecting Gibbons: SwaraOwa Scholarship for Village Youth

Blog Post, , ,

from left to right : Iyan, Lukni, Alek

by : Imam Taufiqurrahman

Nowadays, foreign languages—especially English—have become essential to learn. Mastery of this language is essential for interacting with the global community. English proficiency is a prerequisite in many fields, particularly in tourism.
The tourism sector, in the form of wildlife ecotourism, developed by Swaraowa in Kayupuring and Mendolo villages, is also meeting this need. As villages with abundant wildlife potential and attracting numerous international tourists, developing the English language skills of the villagers is crucial and essential.

That’s what motivated Swaraowa to facilitate three young men, Lukni Al Khabib and Feri Fitriyanto from Kayupuring Village, Petungkriyono District, and Alek Ripa’i from Mendolo Village, Lebakbarang District, to learn English. The three have been involved in the development of special interest tourism, gibbon watching, in Kayupuring and Mendolo, which has attracted international tourists for at least the past three years. They are also members of the biodiversity monitoring team, which conducts participatory wildlife observation activities, particularly of the Javan gibbon, in their villages every two months.

They became the first recipients of English language scholarships from Swaraowa in 2026. For one month, from January 12 to February 8, 2026, the three had the opportunity to study at Kampung Inggris Pare, Kediri, East Java. They received intensive learning, not only in the classroom but also in their daily lives while living in the dormitory.

Practically, these young people take part in a conversation class program which aims to prepare participants to be able to actively speak English. This program forges confidence in communicating so that you are able to converse fluently and master various types of vocabulary, including grammar.
English language course activities in an environment like the English village also foster self-confidence in Lukni, Alek and Iyan, who live in the forest every day, meet with course friends from various regions in Indonesia, exchange experiences and of course help promote the Javan gibbon among their friends.

The three truly took advantage of the learning opportunity in Kampung Pare as a means of self-development. During their stay, they interacted and gained experience with other participants from various regions in Indonesia.
Each weekend, they were each assigned to write a weekly story and experience. The content included both classroom learning and their daily activities in Kampung Inggris Pare. They undoubtedly experienced many stories, both joys and sorrows (notes are available in the link at the end of this article). At the end of their notes, each shared their impressions and reflections on the various experiences they had experienced.

We’ve excerpted them here:

Lukni Al Khabib:
After one month of studying at Brilliant Kampung England, I felt a significant improvement in my English skills, especially in speaking and vocabulary mastery. Daily practice, supportive tutors, and a friendly environment make the learning process effective and enjoyable. This program provided valuable experience and motivation for me to continue improving my English skills in the future. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to SwaraOwa and my colleagues at Swaraowa. Thank you for providing a scholarship to study English in Pare.

Ferry Fitriyanto (Iyan):
I say a big thank you to Swaraowa, with this scholarship from Swaraowa I can learn English because this opportunity is not available to everyone. And I have a desire to continue my English lessons in Kampung England for maximum results.

Alek Ripa’i:
It’s really fun and exciting to study here. Thanks to Swaraowa for giving me this opportunity! And last but not least! Thanks to all my tutors, my classmates, campmates, and everyone in Kampung England. Thank you, for all the good memories, and I will see you when I see you!

They, the young generation from the villages that are home to the Javan gibbon, have raised hopes for the future. They will represent their communities, showcasing the potential of their respective villages. Going forward, their role as ambassadors will be to welcome, interact, and communicate with the global community that visits their villages.

 

Translated from original article : https://swaraowa.blogspot.com/2026/03/beasiswa-swaraowa-bahasa-inggris.html

05Mar/26

From Java to Papua: Bridging Biodiversity and Climate Solutions

Blog Post, , , ,

by Arif Setiawan

FM12 Sympoium and NBCS confrence, West Papua

The first international conference in 2026,represent Swaraowa. When I learned that this event, scheduled for mid-2025, would be held in Papua, I immediately prepared my abstract and registered. This 12th Flora Malesiana botanist meeting will be combined with the first nature-based climate solutions conference, offering an opportunity to visit the Dream Island of Papua.

As an introduction, in the context of botany, plant science, and biogeography, the term Malesiana refers to a floristic region with similar botanical characteristics, not to the name of the country of Malaysia or Melanesia.

Flora Malesiana is an international flora project that aims to name, describe, and inventory the flora of all vascular plants in Malesia, a region encompassing Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and Papua New Guinea. The Malesian biodiversity region harbors an extraordinary diversity of vascular plants with over 41,500 species currently recognized and reported from the region (Plants of the World Online). In short, “Malesiana” is a biological identity that unites the islands of Southeast Asia, including Papua, based on their natural resources, regardless of their respective political borders.

The symposium is held every three years, and this year, the 12th edition was held in Papua, from February 9-14, 2026. The 12th Flora Malesiana (FM12) meeting is a gathering of plant experts to update flora projects from representatives of each region or taxa. This year, it was held concurrently with the Nature-Based Climate Solutions (NBCS) conference, according to the organizers, due to the link between plant richness and climate resilience. Research and Policy Synergy: FM12 focuses on documenting and preserving plant diversity, while NBCS focuses on utilizing nature to address climate change. This integration aims to ensure that scientific data on flora can directly inform climate solution policies.

booth swaraowa during the confrence

Why is swaraOwa present at this event? Nature-Based Climate Solutions—this is the theme swaraOwa was able to attend, as swaraOwa’s activities in Central Java for Javan Gibbon conservation are a form of nature-based climate solutions activities. Even more special, the committee recognized SwaraOwa as a keynote speaker at the conference, and also exhibited its Owa Coffee exhibition booth from February 9th to 13th at Manokwari City Mall.

The symposium opened at the West Papua Governor’s Office. According to committee chairman Prof. Charlie D. Heatubun, the event was attended by approximately 300 people from 15 countries. In his remarks, West Papua Governor Dominggus Mandacan, governor and chief of the Arfak tribe, stated that West Papua Province, with forest cover exceeding 70% of its territory, grows on a thin layer of soil. When damaged, forests take a long time to recover. The Governor, who received the 2019 Global Conservation Hero award, conveyed the philosophy that Papua’s forests are mothers. This expression means forests are a source of life, strength, protection, and compassion that must be maintained sustainably for the Papuan people.

on behalf of Swaraowa presenting Nature Based Climate Solution confrence

The second day, from February 10th to the fourth day, the symposium took place at the Swissbell Hotel. In Manokwari, SwaraOwa joined as a speaker at the Nature-Based Climate Solutions event, with a presentation titled “Bridging Biodiversity and Livelihoods: The Javan Gibbon Conservation Model.”

During the exhibition, SwaraOwa presented products from its community development and livelihood conservation programs for the Javan Gibbon. Participants and the general public from Manokwari appreciated the SwaraOwa booth, which served as a platform for further discussion, exchange experiences, and forge new conservation networks. Participants also had the opportunity to sample gibbon coffee, which is currently an ambassador for gibbon conservation in Papua.

The final day, February 13th, was a highly anticipated field trip, as the committee offered a visit to the Arfak Mountains, the natural habitat of endemic Papuan birds. At 6 a.m., about 70 of us, in a convoy of over 20 dualcab 4×4, headed to our first destination, Kwau Village, a birdwatching tourist destination. The road to the location was in excellent condition, with steep ups and downs, but it was easily traversed.

The villages appeared to be developed, with permanent buildings. There were also traditional houses, the “house of a thousand pillars,” a traditional house native to the Arfak mountain tribe. These wooden houses featured numerous small pillars and bark walls. The journey was very pleasant, flanked by dense forests and distinctive mountain vegetation.

Mating site of Vogelkop bowerbird-Burung Pintar

Around 10 a.m., we arrived in Kwau village. We were immediately divided into several groups to observe the Papuan birds-of-paradise. One of the highlights here was the Vogelkop bowerbird (Amblyornis inornate), “burung pintar”. This intelligence stems from its unique mating behavior. It builds large nests, up to one meter in diameter, on the ground, and arranges the nest’s materials based on color and size, meticulously to attract females.

However, that morning, due to the large group and the late morning, we were unable to witness this bird in action. We only witnessed the completed nest, with its attractive, complex architecture: branches arranged to resemble a hut, between 40 cm to one meter high. The male bird cleaned the hut/nest entrance area, and curated objects, aesthetics, and color curation of materials, including plastic waste and bottle caps, which were grouped by color to attract female bird. Research suggests this bird has a larger brain than other birds, demonstrating an evolutionary intelligence that offsets its less attractive appearance. This bird was seen around its nest, but it wasn’t well documented due to its dark color and inadequate lighting. However, seeing this bird with my eyes is a lifer’s luck.

giant banana tree

In the Kwau forest, we can also see the giant banana tree, endemic to Papua (Musa ingens), the largest herbaceous species in the world, growing among the dense forests of the Arfak mountains, its trunk towering three times higher than a typical banana tree, and its diameter exceeding 80 cm. This banana trunk appears whiter than most banana trunks, and the fruit is small, and according to information the fruit is not edible. The giant banana was first identified by a British botanist, in 1954, by Norman Willison Simmonds.

Kwau villages , Arfak Mountain landscape

Undohotma field station Anggi-Giji lake

The next destination of our journey took us up to the summit of the Arfak Mountains, to Undohotma village, near Lake Anggi, a mountain lake at an altitude of 1,800-2,000 meters above sea level. Here, we visited the research, conservation, and economic development center, managed by Bentara Papua and the University of Papua. It conducts biodiversity research and promotes sustainable management and economic activities for local residents. The Anggi coffee production center, along with Arabica coffee, and a collection of flora typical of the Arfak Mountains, are also located here.

The mountainous landscape, with two separate lakes, Lake Giji and Lake Gida, is a feast for the eyes. Typical mountain mossy vegetation, such as Rhododendrons and pitcher plants, are easily observed around the lakes. This visit to Lake Anggi concluded our trip to Papua. We hope to visit again sometime in the near future.

31Dec/25

Mentawai Wildlife Tourism: New Potential Amidst Challenges

Blog Post, , , ,

Bokkoi Macaca siberu

by : Arif Setiawan

Mentawai has long been known worldwide as a surfing paradise and for its exotic culture. However, another potential is starting to attract attention: wildlife tourism. Imagine exploring the Siberut forest, hearing the sounds of the Mentawai bilou primates, or seeing endemic birds flitting through the trees. This is an experience unlike mainstream tourism.

Since 2016, SwaraOwa, along with local partners, has pioneered this special interest tourism initiative. Observation sites are provided in Toloulago village, and in the past two years, 30 visitors from 11 countries have visited Toloulago. This location was chosen based on a 2012 study on the distribution of bilou throughout the Mentawai Islands. In collaboration with a team in South Siberut, the team is led by experienced guides Vinsensius Tateburuk and Ismael Saumanuk. 2025 marked a significant milestone: seminars, new location surveys, and cross-agency coordination were held to mainstream wildlife tourism as a new option. The hope was that this activity would not just be an attraction, but also provide economic benefits to the community while preserving wildlife.

Support came from various parties. Academics, journalists, local government officials, and even local guides joined the discussion. A webinar titled “Mentawai Primates as a Special Interest Tourism Attraction: Challenges and Opportunities” was held by swaraOwa on September 23, 2025, with over 150 participants attending online. A recording of this event can be viewed on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kppuhAjOpw0?si=DyMWbNDuCWLzpE71.

Matotonan Village in South Siberut is even being developed as a wildlife tourism village. This initiative demonstrates that nature tourism can be a compromise: strengthening Mentawai cultural identity while opening up sustainable economic opportunities. This initiative from the local government has brought together the Tourism Office and SwaraOwa for several in-person discussions, held on November 24, 2025, in Tuapejat, followed by an online meeting on December 9, 2025.

Meeting with the Tourism, Youth, and Sports Office in Tuapejat, Sipora, November 24, 2025.

However, challenges remain. Limited infrastructure, difficult geographic access, pressure from the extractive industry—timber concessions—and primate poaching still loom. Therefore, SwaraOwa emphasizes the importance of a shared understanding: wildlife is not an object to be controlled at will. This tourism must be developed with a long-term commitment to truly benefit the indigenous people and preserve Mentawai’s uniqueness. Investment in human resources for special interest tour guides and tourism management is also crucial, and independence must be encouraged.

wildlife watching guide in Sipora :Mateus Sakaliau, Erwin Tatubeket and Ismael Saumanuk

Mentawai now has another potential, but it has not yet been fully realized. If surfing brings world-class waves to its shores, then wildlife tourism can bring its forests and endemic animals to the hearts of visitors. Cultivating a sense of pride and appreciation for biodiversity among the Mentawai people, and safeguarding endangered primate populations for future generations. This enormous potential awaits realization—with cooperation, patience, and a love of nature.

31Dec/25

Gibbon Tourism: Integrating Conservation and the Village Economy

Blog Post, , , ,

gibbon spotting, gibboning in Sokokembang

by Arif Setiawan

Behind the Mendolo and Sokokembang forests, the echo of gibbons is not just a call of nature, but a golden opportunity for conservation and community well-being. Since 2023, swaraOwa, through Primate and Aves Tour- https://www.primavestour.com/ , has pioneered a new special interest tourism path: wildlife observation, led by Imam Taufiqurrahman, an ornithologist who bridges the world of science with the travel experience. Imam, through primavest, has also opened an unprecedented wildlife observation tour route in Central Java.

A series of meetings with the Mendolo community were held in March 2025 and April 2025 to support the protection of wildlife and their habitats at the local level. These meetings resulted in a village-level agreement to protect primates, birds, river fish, and the village forest. The swaraOwa team also built the capacity of local guides through monthly monitoring activities (read here for last year 2024 workshop series in Kayupuring and in Mendolo) This activity also trained guides to map observation routes and honed their interpretation and narrative skills, which they would later share with visitors. In 2025, Primavestour and SwaraOwa hosted 15 gibbon-watching tour packages, including a total of 66 people. All came from abroad (Belgium, Germany, and Spain). Two groups (12 people) were also hosted by domestic visitors through other local tour operators.

More than just a trip, wildlife tourism reduces poaching practices because communities view wildlife as valuable living assets. It also generates new, previously unavailable sources of income, from guide services and homestays to local culinary delights. The presence of tourists fosters hospitality services in villages, strengthening residents’ skills in welcoming guests to international standards.

Most importantly, this activity fosters a positive appreciation for biodiversity among forest dwellers. Animals once considered commonplace are now seen as a source of village pride, a symbol of identity, and a source of future prosperity.

This special interest tourism potential is highly feasible, but management improvements are still needed, working with local governments and forestry stakeholders. However, at least the primary local guides to guide tourists are already in place. In addition to publications through tourism exhibitions, trip reports in international wildlife watch magazines, such as mammalwatching.com, are significantly helpful in promoting and marketing this special interest tourism. https://www.mammalwatching.com/community-post/javan-primate-weekend/

31Dec/25

Sokokembang Gibbon Conservation Education Center: A Bridge of Knowledge, Culture, and Action

Blog Post

swraowa conservation education center

by Arif Setiawan

In the heart of Sokokembang Forest, Petungkriyono, complementing the educational facilities that had already been established, a new building now stands as a symbol of hope—especially for the Swaraowa team—to continue amplifying the voices of conservation in this region of extraordinary biodiversity.
The Gibbon Conservation Education Center was constructed between June and December 2025, thoughtfully designed by local architects from Yogyakarta, Ms. Puspita Agus and her husband Mr. Faiz Rizka Alimy, who deeply understood the cultural and ecological context of the area. Equally important were the local builders—stone masons and carpenters—who translated the architectural drawings into reality. Their innovations included replacing the planned red brick walls with cut red roof tiles, a solution that was more cost-efficient yet aesthetically pleasing. The floors were made from irregularly arranged natural stone framed neatly, enhancing the natural feel. The ceiling was crafted from woven bamboo, adding a traditional touch.

gibbon watch at veranda of education center

More Than a Physical Space
This building is not merely a physical structure, but a vessel for:
• Conservation Education: Introducing communities and visitors to the importance of protecting the Javan gibbon and the forest ecosystem.
• Community Empowerment: Providing meeting spaces, training facilities, and opportunities for conservation-based creative economies.
• Research: Supporting researchers, especially young scholars and local university students, in studying ecology, biodiversity, forest systems, social dynamics, and conservation strategies.

Originally, the house served as a kitchen and dining area for guests and training participants in Sokokembang. However, its condition became unsuitable, prompting a redesign to improve comfort and better support future activities.

Design Inspired by Local Culture
The building measures 12 x 9 meters, with a concept centered on kitchens and dining spaces as places for gathering, socializing, and interaction. It features two kitchens: one traditional wood-fired kitchen reflecting Petungkriyono’s atmosphere, and one modern kitchen. A coffee roasting machine and display shelves for Owa Coffee packaging were also included. This concept was inspired by the mountain community culture of Petungkriyono, where kitchens are central to family and neighborly gatherings (locally known as ngendong—visiting and socializing). In such spaces, conversations flow freely, ideas emerge spontaneously, and bonds are strengthened while surrounded by the lush forest.

murall at the wall of the center

Visual Education Through Art
Inside, the walls are adorned with murals depicting native wildlife of Petungkriyono: the Javan gibbon as the icon, Javan langur, blue-banded kingfisher, bees, wild boar, leopard, and more. These works were created by mural artist Mr. Agil from Mesoyi Village, Talun District, near the gibbon’s habitat.

A Growing Center of Activity
By the end of 2025, several events had already utilized the facility. For example, 21 participants of a gibbon survey methods training used the dining and interaction spaces, as well as the gibbon observation terrace. Other organizations have also held events here. The center follows a “growing” concept, meaning it can be expanded as needed. Currently, classrooms and multimedia facilities support teaching and learning activities. A traditional wooden limasan house in the northern section, called Omah Owa Lor, serves as an indoor lecture space and provides two guest rooms (capacity of five people each) and two bathrooms for speakers and visitors.

Integrating Nature and Daily Life
The site also includes a garden area for native flora collections, tree nurseries, and food crops such as chili, vegetables, cassava, and fish ponds that cultivate local river species from Sokokembang.

A Symbol of Collaboration
The Sokokembang Javan Gibbon Co

nservation Education Center is a bridge between science, culture, and real action. It is a space where local communities, researchers, and visitors can meet, learn, and collaborate for the sustainable future of Petungkriyono’s forests.
Special thanks go to Fort Wayne Zoo, whose support made the construction of this conservation education facility possible.

Translated from original article in bahasa here : https://swaraowa.blogspot.com/2025/12/pusat-edukasi-konservasi-owasokokembang.html 

29Dec/25

Mendolo Food Week 2025: Weaving Food, Art, and Conservation for the Future of the Forest

Blog Post, ,

women prepared food in Mendolo food week

by Sidiq Harjanto

The Mendolo Food Week 2025 became a vital moment for the people of Mendolo Village to weave together traditions of food, art, and conservation. Long before the event, women from the Brayanurip Women Farmers Group had prepared keluwek from pucung seeds, while young members of the Mendolo Youth Farmers Association practiced dances with their younger siblings. For days, villagers gathered forest vegetables and mushrooms, decorated the stage with natural materials, and curated menus based on forest produce—showing how food, culture, and nature are deeply connected.

Jingkrak Sundang dance

food prepared from the forest

More than just a food festival, Food Week served as a conservation hub under the theme “Food and Ecosystem Connectivity.” Collaboration between SwaraOwa, the village government, and local communities has fostered sustainable economic programs such as shade-grown coffee, stingless bee honey, and gadung flour, alongside conservation efforts like tree planting for forest corridors. The highlight was the launch of the “Titian Lestari” program, which carries three missions: building habitat corridors for the Javan gibbon, educating youth about forests and wildlife, and empowering women in forest management.

branyan urip dancers

Art played an integral role in strengthening the conservation message. Children’s performances such as Gaculan Bocah and Jingkrak Sundang brought joy while also evoking empathy for wildlife losing their habitats. Combined with 31 forest-based dishes served to guests, Mendolo Food Week 2025 affirmed that food traditions, artistic expression, and conservation are inseparable—an enduring collective effort to safeguard forests, wildlife, and the future of generations to come.

This aricle translated from original article published in bahasa : https://swaraowa.blogspot.com/2025/12/pekan-pangan-mendolo-2025-pangan-dan.html

 

29Dec/25

Daily Climate Characteristics of Sokokembang Forest 2025: Hydrological and Ecological Implications

Blog Post, , ,

by : Arif Setiawan
Notes based on weather monitoring equipment installed at the Owajawa SwaraOwa-Sokokembang education and conservation center, January 1, 2025-December 29, 2025.
[disclaimer: there are days when the device does not record data due to the power source being turned off from the device]

Throughout 2025, the Sokokembang forest experienced weather dynamics typical of humid tropical regions. Air temperatures ranged from 21°C to 31°C, with a heat index often higher than the actual temperature, indicating high humidity. This condition makes the air feel hotter, especially as humidity slows the evaporation of sweat. For forest animals and plants, this humidity requires further study to determine its impact. The Swaraowa team’s research on gibbons (gibbons) found a correlation between air humidity and the vocalizing behavior of Javan gibbons.

Rainfall shows an uneven pattern. Most days of the year are recorded without rain, indicating a long dry period. However, heavy rainfall does come in short, intense bursts. The highest rainfall peak occurred on December 2, reaching 63 mm in a single day—a crucial event that moistens the soil, fills rivers, and refreshes entire forest layers. In January, rain begins to return slowly after twenty dry days, with light to moderate intensity, peaking at around 14.4 mm before tapering off.

Rainfall records during the Petungkriyono landslide disaster on January 20, 2025
Several days before and after the landslide and during the landslide, electricity in Sokokembang often went out, so the equipment could not record daily climate data in Sokokembang.

Hydrological Implications
Increased runoff : Dry, hard soil has difficulty absorbing water quickly. Heavy rain in a short period tends to run off directly onto the surface, increasing the risk of local flooding or erosion.
Limited infiltration: Rainwater does not have time to seep into the ground, so groundwater reserves do not increase optimally.
River discharge fluctuations: Rivers can suddenly overflow during heavy rain, then recede quickly after the rain stops. The characteristics of rivers in the Petungkriyono Mountains: heavy rain in the upper reaches, while there is no rain in the middle and lower reaches/downstream, can cause unexpected flooding downstream.

Ecological Implications

Vegetation stress: Prolonged dry periods cause plants to experience water deficits. Sudden heavy rains don’t always immediately reverse the situation because roots need time to absorb the water.
Animal habitats: Arboreal animals (e.g. gibbons) may experience changes in activity patterns.
Forest productivity: Rainfall surges can encourage the growth of fungi, mosses, and understory plants, but also increase the risk of plant diseases due to sudden moisture surges.

Social & Conservation Implications
Landslide risk: Slopes that are dry and then suddenly saturated with water are more susceptible to landslides.
Community water availability: Long dry periods can reduce clean water supplies, while short periods of heavy rainfall are not enough to replenish reserves.
Flood and heavy rain warnings in the upper reaches of the river (around Petungkriyono sub-district), which are forwarded to villages along the river and downstream of the river which originates in Petungkriyono.
Conservation planning: This data is important for managing field activities, such as avoiding surveys during periods of potential extreme rainfall, or preparing community adaptation strategies for uneven climate patterns.

???? In short : prolonged dry periods weaken the soil’s and ecosystem’s absorption capacity, so sudden heavy rainfall causes more surface runoff than soil fertilization. The impacts can include local flooding, erosion, and disruption to the forest’s ecological cycle.

translated from original article here : https://swaraowa.blogspot.com/2025/12/karakteristik-iklim-harian-sokokembang.html

 

28Dec/25

Why is it Important to Count the Mentawai Bilou Population?

Blog Post, , ,

Bilou, the mentawai Gibbon observed in Saguruju customary forest

By: Arif Setiawan, Aloysius Yoyok, Nur Aoliya, Kurnia Latifiana, Kurnia Ahmaddin,

The bilou, the endemic gibbon of the Mentawai Islands ( Hylobates klosii ), is unlike any other animal. It is part of the Mentawai people’s story. Its early morning call signifies the forest’s survival. Mentawaians believe that if a bilou calls in the early morning, it signals a bad omen, such as a death or an impending disaster. If the call is gone, where will we learn about these natural omens? If we know how many bilou are left, we can ensure the forest remains healthy, as bilou help disperse tree seeds and maintain the balance of nature.

If we don’t count the population, we don’t know whether the bilou are dwindling or whether they are still safe. Population is the number of individuals occupying a specific area of ​​habitat. It’s like counting the number of children in a village: if there are fewer, we worry about the village’s future being deserted. The same is true for bilou—if their population declines, it’s a sign that our forests are ailing.

What are the Benefits for us:

– Know the condition of the forest: lots of bilou = healthy forest.

– Preserving cultural heritage: bilou is part of Mentawai identity.

– Attracting global attention: population data can help gain support for protecting forests.

– Ensuring the future: our children and grandchildren can still hear the sound of the bilou in the forest.

So, counting the bilou population isn’t just about numbers. It’s how we protect our shared home, ensure the forest remains alive, and preserve the Mentawai story.

Location map of the bilou survey  on triangulastion set locations

The Siripok Bilou team, formed in early 2025, successfully conducted a survey to estimate the number of bilou in selected areas on Siberut. We surveyed nine customary forest areas based on recommendations from the local Citra Mandiri Foundation. Using the vocal count-triangulation survey method, the survey was conducted based on bilou sounds. Observers conducted the survey using a triangulation system (three observation points in different locations, with a distance of 300-500 meters between them). These three points were then repeated for four consecutive days to listen and estimate the distance. The assumption was that the same group would vocalize at the same location for four consecutive days.

Population analysis was conducted using the same point count formula used in previous Bilou population estimates (Setiawan et al. 2020; Whittaker et al. 1995). To determine the area, we used a habitat suitability analysis, which can be read here: https://swaraowa.blogspot.com/2025/12/dimana-bilou-bersuara-pemetaan-habitat.html

Mentawai bilou population calculation table in 2025

From the population analysis that we conducted, the estimated population of bilou in the customary forest area in South Siberut (11 locations) with an area of ​​approximately 208.64 km 2 is approximately 396 individuals consisting of 146 (96-186) groups.

These results are preliminary from a survey that will be conducted throughout Mentawai and are subject to change based on the latest information obtained from field teams that have, are, or will conduct surveys at other locations in the Mentawai Islands. For discussions regarding this analysis, please contact [email protected].

26Dec/25

Where the Gibbons Sing: Forest Maps for Mentawai’s Future

Blog Post, , ,

By Kurnia Latifiana

Updating land cover information and habitat suitability assessments provide a baseline for identifying priority areas for protection, restoration, and improved management. The maps produced through this assessment can thus support in considering conservation decision making across Mentawai Islands. By providing insight and a comprehensive spatial perspective as an effort to strengthen primate conservation strategies and contribute to evidence based actions that safeguarding Kloss’s gibbon and their remaining forest habitat.

Objectives

To contribute insight of conservation actions for Kloss’s gibbon, this assessment aims to:

  1. Update the land cover map of Mentawai Islands to provide current representation of forest condition and potential threats in the landscape
  2. Develop and estimate suitable habitat for Kloss’s gibbon across the islands using spatial and ecological variables to identify priority habitats and areas potential at risk

Methods

Our study took place across the Mentawai Islands, focusing especially on nine customary forests in Madobag and Matotonan villages. These forests are cared for by local communities, and they are very important because they provide homes for Kloss’s gibbons and help keep the forest connected. To understand how well these areas support gibbons, we combined knowledge from past studies with new observations from the field. We looked at where gibbons were seen, and we also noted the condition of the land and forest. Using satellite images, we created updated maps of forest cover, which we checked and refined with help from local surveys. Finally, we used a computer model to predict which areas are most suitable for gibbons, considering factors like forest cover, tree health, land shape, climate, and how close the forest is to rivers or villages. This way, we can see which places are most important for protecting gibbons and supporting community efforts to keep the forest healthy.

Results

Land cover mapping

Kloss’s gibbons are strongly associated with forested habitats, particularly secondary forests.The updated land cover map of 2025 provides a current spatial overview of forest conditions across the Mentawai Islands, with particular attention to nine customary forests in Madobag and Matotonan villages. Land cover classification has limitation in distinguishing between secondary forest and mixed planted trees vegetation. Field verification helped improve classification accuracy, particularly in areas dominated by mixed vegetation zones and small patches of secondary forest.

Habitat suitability assessment

The predicted suitable habitat spatially overlapped with the majority of gibbon occurrence records from previous studies and recent field survey in 2025. There are 60 presence points (95%) fall within areas classified as suitable habitat, indicating agreement between model prediction and field observation.

Across the Mentawai Islands, suitable habitat was estimated at around 399,045.24 ha and representing 66.69% of the total area (see Table ), which 302,647.59 ha area is in Siberut Island. Within priority customary forests on Siberut Island, suitable habitat was predicted to cover approximately 78.59% of the island. Suitable habitat area by island is summarized in the table.

Habitat suitability was shaped by a combination pattern of forest structure, climatic conditions, and terrain characteristics. As shown in Figure 2, land cover was the most influential variable, contributing 40% to the model, followed by precipitation (22%), tree cover (18%), and elevation (14%), while all remaining variables individually contributed less than 10%. Human pressure variables showed relatively low direct contributions, not because they are ecologically insignificant, but because their effects are largely captured indirectly through land cover changes and forest condition.

The model confirmed that the secondary forest is the most critical predictor of Kloss’s gibbon distribution in Mentawai Islands. Areas with higher tree cover were associated with a higher probability of gibbon occurrence. This condition also confirmed the gibbons are strong dependence on structurally intact forest canopies. Kloss’s gibbons depend on upper canopy layers for key behaviors, including locomotion, feeding, resting, and vocalization, which require continuous and well developed forest structure.

Disclaimer :The information displayed here is only some part of the habitat suitability analysis for the Mentawai Gibbon Conservation Program, please please contact swaraOwa @gmail.com, for further discussion of the analysis.

24Dec/25

Life Corridor at Risk: The Shrinking Habitat of Javan Gibbons in Mendolo

Blog Post, , , ,

By : Kurnia Ahmaddin

The monitoring of Javan gibbons in Sawahan Hamlet, Mendolo Village began with the concern of the youth from PPM Mendolo, who suspected that the gibbons in the western hills of their village were becoming isolated. Since 2010, much of the forest area has been converted into durian orchards and non-shade coffee plantations. Through the Corridor of Life program, which started in 2022, we encouraged their concern to grow into a tree-planting initiative so that gibbons separated from their original groups could regain forest corridors for their own range. For this reason, we guided the PPM Mendolo youth to follow the movements of the Javan gibbons in the western hills of their village to address their concerns.

Forest Fragmentation in Kupel Hill

The fragmentation of forests in Kupel Hill (west of Sawahan Hamlet, Mendolo Village) cannot be easily detected from satellite imagery, as most of the hill is covered by rubber plantations owned by PTPN. A small portion (marked yellow on the map) has been left unmanaged since the last logging in 2017, which has since grown into secondary forest. The rest consists of durian and coffee plantations. Ground checks revealed that only 70 hectares of forest trees remain out of the original 200 hectares of Kupel Hill.


From January to October 2025, 74 encounter reports were recorded by the monitoring team, including research data from Nur Azizah (research intern from Biologi UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta) between April and June. Only one record noted gibbons crossing through a durian orchard; the rest were observed exclusively in forest trees. The target gibbon group consists of a breeding pair, two juveniles, and one infant. During the monitoring period, their range covered approximately 32.9 hectares. However, in August 2025, 7.29 hectares of secondary forest (yellow on the map), owned by PTPN, was logged again for timber harvest. As a result, the gibbon group’s range shrank to 25.61 hectares. Within this area, there is a natural overlap of 4.72 hectares (red on the map) with another gibbon group of four individuals.
Monitoring results show that areas without encounter points (green on the map) are durian and non-shade coffee plantations, visible as empty circles without encounter marks. Given that only one crossing was recorded in durian orchards, the target group’s range is at risk of further shrinking unless sustainable farming practices are introduced.

Behavior of the Gibbons in Sawahan

We acknowledge that our field data collection has not yet been consistent. We only recorded brief behavioral notes during monitoring, as the gibbon group in Sawahan is not yet habituated. Monitoring was conducted for half days, not from waking to sleeping. Rain and other field challenges also shortened observation hours. Behavior was recorded only once per encounter, ad-libitum, without systematic time intervals.
Behaviors noted included feeding, resting or sleeping, moving, playing, mating, grooming, and vocalizing, which we categorized as social behavior. Average encounter distance was 95.1 meters from observers. The gibbons remained cautious, often leaving when humans approached within 100 meters. Although the closest tree (Tengger tree) was about 30 meters away, the monitoring team always hid to avoid frightening the gibbons. We also wore consistent uniforms during observations to reduce disturbance. The group was active in the canopy, averaging 25.7 meters above ground.
The most frequently recorded activity was moving, likely because the group is not yet habituated. The least observed were social activities. Among social behaviors, we noted play among the juveniles, grooming, and vocalizations (great calls or alarm calls). No reproductive activity was recorded. The group was often observed resting—sitting, lying down, or napping—and frequently feeding. Due to distance, we could not yet identify the insects consumed. However, in Mendolo we have documented 27 tree species used as gibbon food sources.

Translated from original article in bahasa here :https://swaraowa.blogspot.com/2025/12/menyempitnya-wilayah-jelajah-owa-jawa.html