In the face of escalating environmental crises, a bold initiative has emerged to ignite the passion of the younger generation. Through the NGAKAR program—short for Ngobrol Konservasi dan Restorasi (Conversations on Conservation and Restoration)—Relung Indonesia and Hutan Harapan have joined forces to empower youth as frontline guardians of our planet’s future.

A Climate Crisis Unfolding Before Our Eyes: Why Immediate Action is Critical

Indonesia stands at a pivotal crossroads. The threat of deforestation—eroding the lungs of our planet—remains a grave concern. Despite claims of significant reductions, independent data shows that forest loss continues, particularly due to unchecked industrial expansion in Papua and Sulawesi.

The consequences are already evident. Coastal floods are drowning shoreline communities, severe droughts are decimating farmland, and vital ecosystems are collapsing—dragging biodiversity toward extinction. With cities choking on air pollution and oceans suffocating in plastic waste, we are facing a multidimensional crisis. In response, embracing sustainable development is no longer optional—it is an urgent imperative.

The Power of Collective Action: The Vital Role of Youth and Women

1. Youth as the Frontline of Change

Young people are our greatest asset in the fight for environmental justice. They are innovative, tech-savvy, and deeply attuned to global issues. Research on climate change underscores this: youth are not passive observers but strategic actors in shaping solutions. Their energy and creativity fuel real movements that inspire change and nurture a profound awareness of planetary sustainability.

2. Women as Keepers of Knowledge and Life

No conservation effort is complete without the central role of women. Global studies recognize women as holders of traditional ecological knowledge, particularly in managing natural resources. As emphasized by an advisor from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), “Women are active agents of change at the family and community levels,” given their daily roles in managing resources sustainably.

Introducing NGAKAR: Action-Driven Conversations for Conservation

To meet the need for an inspiring educational platform, Relung Indonesia and Hutan Harapan launched the #Ngakar Instagram Live series—a collaborative initiative combining the strengths of:

• Relung Indonesia: A foundation committed to cultivating a “dynamic harmony between people and nature” through regenerative approaches.

• Hutan Harapan: A 98,555-hectare ecosystem restoration area in Sumatra, and a globally recognized model for tropical rainforest restoration.

Held biweekly on Saturday evenings, NGAKAR becomes a space for meaningful dialogue between experts, field practitioners, and young audiences—hosted by Eka Bagus Panuntun (Knowledge Management & Public Communications Manager at Relung Indonesia) and Rohmat Eko S. (Head of Research and Conservation at Hutan Harapan).

Tackling Environmental Issues: Stories from the Frontlines

Each NGAKAR session goes beyond statistics, offering human-centered stories that resonate deeply.

• Session One emphasized that restoration is not just about planting trees—it’s about reviving entire ecosystems. “Young people must feel that the future of forests is part of their own future,” said the Head of Research and Conservation at PT REKI, highlighting youth as central stakeholders in conservation.

• Session Two delivered emotional depth by featuring staff from Klinik Besamo—a healthcare service operating in the heart of Hutan Harapan. This session demonstrated that conservation and humanitarian efforts are two sides of the same coin. Midwives, nurses, and female health workers were shown not only providing care but also sustaining life within the forest communities.

“The women of Hutan Harapan are not just protecting their families—they are safeguarding the very pulse of the forest itself.”
— Klinik Besamo Staff, PT REKI

• Session Three spotlighted collaborative efforts with the Meranti Harapan Collaboration Platform (PKMH), which shared joint patrol experiences proving that trust and shared action are the most effective defenses against encroachment and illegal poaching.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main goal of the NGAKAR program?

To raise awareness and inspire tangible action among youth on conservation and ecosystem restoration through accessible and engaging dialogue.

2. How can I get involved beyond watching the Instagram Live?

You can share insights from NGAKAR sessions on your social media, start discussions in your local community, or volunteer in environmental initiatives near you.

3. Is this program only for environmental activists?

Not at all. NGAKAR is designed for everyone—from students and young professionals to anyone who cares about the future of Indonesia’s environment, regardless of background.

Our Future Is in Our Hands: Join the NGAKAR Movement!

The NGAKAR initiative sends a clear message: saving forests means saving our future. This is a call to action for you—the young generation of Indonesia.

✨ Be part of the change!

📲 Follow: @relungofficial and @hutanharapan for the latest updates.
📅 Watch: Tune in every other Saturday night for the #Ngakar Instagram Live discussions.
📢 Share: Spread the word to your friends and community.

Together, with every small step, we can create a powerful wave of change for a better planet.