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