Dozens of Indigenous youth and local community members from various regions across Maluku ventured directly into the forests of Saunulu Village on Seram Island. They were not there for an adventure, but with a vital mission: to learn how to become the frontline guardians and monitors of the forest. Organized by Kaoem Telapak from June 1–6, 2026, the Forest Monitoring Training provided a collaborative learning space. As threats to Maluku's natural resources continue to grow, the program aimed to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to safeguard their forests and Indigenous territories......
Deep in the rural Central Halmahera region, morning in Kulo Village began with the sound of birds chirping and farmers hacking their farming tools at the farm. On the edge of Akejira River, housewives washed their clothes & chatted with each other and children ran around at the house yard or swam on the clear water, all while the morning breeze brought home the fragrance of fresh soil and leaves......
Fandi Wattimena, a member of Kaoem Telapak from Ambon, Maluku, is a dedicated journalist......
