GUARDIANS OF THE FOREST #2: COLLABORATION TO PROTECT KEHJE SEWEN

As part of ongoing efforts to protect the Kehje Sewen Forest in East Kalimantan, the Community Development Team and the Ecosystem Restoration – Forest Protection, Security, and Fire Prevention (RE-PPHK) Team from BOS Foundation’s company PT RHOI conducted a joint patrol. The initiative took place over two consecutive days, covering two different routes. It showcased how collaboration among teams and stakeholders can provide tangible solutions to the threats facing forest ecosystems and the cultural values of local communities.

The Start of the Patrol
The joint team departed from Camp Nles Mamse in the Kehje Sewen Forest at 10:00 a.m. local time to patrol the route from the camp to an area called Muara Soh. Upon arrival, the team documented the area and recorded GPS coordinates. On the first day, they found no signs of illegal logging, wildlife poaching, mining activities, community encroachment, or other illegal activity.

The next day, the patrol continued from Camp Nles Mamse to an area known as SKA, starting at noon local time. The route began at the orangutan release point named Edgar, with the team proceeding on foot. They arrived at the site at 2:00 p.m. and immediately documented several points that showed signs of mining. The team then installed warning signboards prohibiting mining activity. However, they found no illegal activity or potential environmental threats during this second patrol. The traces of illegal mines appeared to have been abandoned a long time ago.

Respect and shared responsibility are essential for safeguarding the land and preserving life and cultural heritage.

Collaboration to Prevent Conflict and Environmental Damage
This activity was more than just a routine patrol—it represented a collaborative approach involving not only PT RHOI’s internal technical teams but also Dayak Wehea elders from three supported villages that directly border the Kehje Sewen Forest working area. This collaboration aimed to minimize the risk of conflicts related to illegal mining, which could result in serious environmental degradation and the erosion of indigenous cultural values.

During the patrol, the team also educated local communities involved in mining on the importance of preserving the ecosystem. They cautioned against the use of hazardous equipment that could harm or pollute the surrounding environment. Warning signs were installed at boundary points to firmly prohibit illegal mining activities.

Traces of a former illegal goldmine that appeared to have been abandoned for a long time.

Shared Commitment to Ecosystem Restoration
Through the synergy between the RE-PPHK team’s technical expertise, the community empowerment team’s social approach, and the traditional knowledge of Indigenous communities, PT RHOI continues to strengthen its commitment to protecting the Kehje Sewen Forest. This patrol is not just about enforcing rules—it’s also part of a larger effort to build awareness, respect, and shared responsibility in caring for a forest that is home to rich biodiversity.

Together, we are not only guarding the land—we are also protecting life, cultural heritage, and a more harmonious future between people and nature.

Learn more about our work here.