A Commitment to Harmony Between Nature and People

Deep in the forests of East Kalimantan, PT. Narkata Rimba (NR) is exploring new ways to balance conservation with community empowerment through sustainable ecotourism. This journey reflects a deep-seated belief in the value of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS), where the preservation of natural ecosystems goes hand in hand with fostering livelihoods and promoting environmental stewardship.

PT. Narkata Rimba (NR) is taking a pioneering step by leveraging ecotourism to achieve sustainable development. This initiative reflects a broader vision of balancing ecological preservation with community welfare, demonstrating how the principles of NbS can be adapted to Indonesia’s unique landscapes and biodiversity.

Unearthing the Hidden Natural Treasures of Narkata Rimba  

Nestled in the lush, verdant forests of East Kalimantan, the Narkata Rimba concession holds a wealth of natural wonders, including a series of pristine waterfalls. These treasures, discovered through collaborative exploration between the Narkata Rimba team and local nature enthusiasts, highlight the region’s incredible ecological richness and its potential for sustainable ecotourism. Among the waterfalls, the Embang Lemun waterfall at kilometer 64 and another at kilometer 58 have already captured the attention of local visitors, offering immersive experiences of the area’s natural beauty.

Since 2017, the Embang Lemun waterfall has been a cornerstone of a partnership between Narkata Rimba and the Ben Hes village-owned enterprise (BUMDES). This collaboration has been instrumental in managing and preserving the waterfall while empowering the surrounding community. With support from the local government, Embang Lemun was formally inaugurated as a tourist destination in 2020, marking a significant milestone in the region’s journey toward sustainable tourism development.

These efforts exemplify the power of collective action, demonstrating how conservation and community engagement can go hand in hand to foster long-term ecological and social resilience. The waterfalls are not just destinations for visitors but symbols of the synergy between nature and people, rooted in the principles of sustainability.  By embracing this partnership model, Narkata Rimba and its community collaborators continue to shape a future where natural treasures are celebrated, preserved, and shared responsibly. These initiatives showcase a commitment to creating shared value for the environment, the community, and visitors, emphasizing the importance of balance in the pursuit of sustainable growth.

A Vision Rooted in Nature-Based Solutions

Narkata Rimba’s ecotourism initiative is grounded in the principles of Nature-Based Solutions, focusing on three interconnected pillars:

  • 1

    Preserving Ecosystems: Protecting the lush forests around the waterfalls ensures that the area’s biodiversity thrives. The initiative emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy ecosystems, which are essential not only for tourism but also for sustaining global climate resilience.

  • 2

    Empowering Communities: A cornerstone of the initiative is the empowerment of local communities. By involving the residents of Ben Hes village in the management of Embang Lemun, Narkata Rimba supports skill-building, training, and institution strengthening to enable community-led ecotourism development.

  • 3

    Fostering Sustainable Growth: Ecotourism is envisioned as a means of contributing to the well-being of local communities while preserving the environment. As interest in ecological tourism grows worldwide, this initiative aims to create opportunities for visitors to connect with nature responsibly.

Looking Forward

While progress has been made, Narkata Rimba recognizes the need for ongoing improvements. Plans include enhancing infrastructure, conducting specialized training for local stakeholders, and building partnerships to support long-term sustainability. These efforts aim to create a harmonious balance between conserving nature and ensuring the economic resilience of nearby communities. 

As Narkata Rimba refines its approach, the door remains open to partners who share a vision of sustainable ecotourism. By fostering collaboration among communities, conservationists, and like-minded organizations, the region’s potential as a beacon of ecological tourism can be fully realized. By focusing on biodiversity, community empowerment, and sustainable practices, the initiative provides a pathway for preserving East Kalimantan’s natural beauty while uplifting the lives of those who call it home.

With increasing global and local interest in eco-conscious travel, Narkata Rimba’s concession area holds immense potential as a destination for nature enthusiasts. These efforts will not only contribute to local community welfare but also align with Nusantara Climate Initiative’s overarching mission of bringing innovative solutions to climate challenges.

Narkata Rimba’s commitment to ecotourism reflects the broader vision of the Nusantara Climate Initiative—leveraging Nature-Based Solutions to create a sustainable, resilient future. By integrating biodiversity preservation, community empowerment, and sustainable economic development, this initiative highlights how thoughtful stewardship can leave a lasting legacy for both people and the planet.

Author: Muhammad Sofiyuddin

Copy Edit: Yessi Agustina; Barakalla Robyn

#NusantaraClimateInitiative #NatureBasedSolutions #Ecotourism #Sustainability

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