By: S. R. Megumi dan Yurissa
On the coast of Makassar City, in the modest village of Lantebung, a unique form of resistance is taking root—not through protests or banners, but through the deliberate planting of mangroves. Amidst rapid urban development and looming reclamation, a group of dedicated young people is committed to preserving their last forest. This community is known as the Lantebung Family Association (IKAL).
Commemorating the National Waste Awareness Day, IKAL held a clean-up action in the mangrove forest area
Sumber: Instagram @ikatan_keluarga_lantebung
One of IKAL’s members, Syasa (a pseudonym), recounts how she and her compatriots have fought to save the remaining mangrove forest. Though not from an Indigenous Community, Syasa has discovered a profound connection between identity, habitat, and collective struggle since joining IKAL.
IKAL initiated a movement called #ResistingByPlanting, a mangrove restoration initiative that has evolved into a broader social movement among coastal youth. “Our focus is on mangroves because they are the most threatened here,” explains Syasa.
Lantebung once held significant potential, even receiving an ecotourism award in 2023. However, this status was short-lived, as the area now faces encroachment from production warehouses, a gas refinery across the sea, and a proposed railway line through the mangrove basin. Reclamation poses an ever-present threat.
Yet for Syasa and her peers, surrender is not an option. They continue to engage in proactive efforts, not only by planting mangroves but also by raising awareness. IKAL regularly educates local residents about the importance of mangrove ecosystems and the legal ramifications of their destruction. “Previously, many harvested mangroves unaware of the prohibition,” Syasa notes.
IKAL’s clean-up action in the mangrove forest area to commemorate the National Waste Awareness Day
Source: Instagram @ikatan_keluarga_lantebung
The youth movement in IKAL commenced in April 2019, although it has yet to attain official status. With steadfast determination, the community now comprises approximately 30 active young individuals. A particularly memorable occasion was their participation in the ‘Hutan Merdeka’ event, featuring traditional performances and reflective spaces. “We aim to assert our existence and commitment to safeguarding our territory and nature,” says Syasa.
For them, the greatest challenge stems not only from visible damage but also from the uncertainty of the future. “Large projects that exclude local voices, looming reclamation, and a system that often neglects the periphery… We strive to convince our peers that the threat is genuine. However, it’s challenging, as the impact isn’t immediately apparent,” Syasa explains.
Like the resilient mangrove, this community chooses to endure, share knowledge, and build strength collectively. Syasa actively participates in various environmental training sessions, such as those organised by Kaoem Telapak, and disseminates the knowledge gained in hopes of applying it locally.
Support from external entities, such as Kaoem Telapak, provides additional encouragement. “We feel we are not alone. Coastal youths can indeed be agents of change,” Syasa affirms.
Syasa and her colleagues believe that change can commence from modest beginnings, such as the careful planting of a single mangrove tree. From this small act, hope flourishes, promising to protect the village and preserve the stories of generations devoted to safeguarding their natural heritage.
