As part of the ongoing efforts to protect the Kehje Sewen Forest in East Kalimantan, a joint patrol was conducted by the Community Development Team and the Ecosystem Restoration – Forest Protection, Security, and Fire Prevention (RE-PPHK) Team from PT RHOI. This activity took place over two consecutive days, covering two different routes. This joint initiative is a clear example of how cross-team and stakeholder collaboration can offer tangible solutions in the face of threats to forest ecosystems and the cultural values of local communities.

The Start of the Patrol

The joint team departed from Camp Nles Mamse at 10:00 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, no signs of illegal logging, wildlife poaching, mining activities, community encroachment, or other illegal activity were found. The return journey to Camp Nles Mamse was completed by 19:00.

Read also: “HIDDEN GEMS” OF KEHJE SEWEN FOREST

The next day, the patrol continued from Camp Nles Mamse to an area known as SKA, starting at 12:00 local time. The route began at the orangutan release point named Edgar, with the team proceeding on foot. They arrived at the site at 14:00 and immediately documented several points showing signs of mining. The team then installed warning signboards prohibiting mining activity. However, no illegal activity or potential environmental threats were found during this second patrol. Our team only found traces of illegal mines that appeared to have been abandoned a long time ago and are no longer in use. The team completed the activity by 16:00 and returned to Camp Nles Mamse.

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 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.

Read also: GUARDIANS OF THE FOREST #1: SAFEGUARDING THE KEHJE SEWEN ECOSYSTEM

During the patrol, local communities involved in mining were also given education on the importance of preserving the ecosystem and were warned against using hazardous equipment that could damage or pollute the surrounding environment. Warning signs were installed at boundary points to firmly prohibit illegal mining activities.

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.

Text by: Community Development Team at Muara Wahau, East Kalimantan