The lush tropical rainforest here serves as a vital refuge for many species, including the critically endangered helmeted hornbill and seven other hornbill species, orangutans, and millions of other creatures that call this forest home.

Indigenous People’s practices in biodiversity conservation are deeply rooted in a cosmic relationship with nature. For generations, Indigenous Peoples have successfully managed ecosystems sustainably, as all the needs to support their livelihoods are met by nature.

In addition to the Ketemenggungan Iban Jalai Lintang Indigenous Peoples Community, the Dayak Punan Tugung Indigenous Community in Bulungan Regency, North Kalimantan, also exemplifies this commitment. Despite their customary territory being entirely within a company’s concession area and classified as forest zone, the Dayak Punan Tugung Indigenous Peoples Community continues to protect the biodiversity in their customary territory.

Rahmat Sulaiman from the Participatory Mapping Network (JKPP) expressed concern about the Dayak Punan Tugung Indigenous Community customary territory, stating, “The entire area is within the logging concession of PT. Intracawood, affecting both its production and protection function. There is a striking contrast in forest management between the corporation and the Indigenous Peoples, demonstrating how the Dayak Punan Tugung Indigenous Peoples can maintain the integrity of their customary forest.”

Nurhayati, an indigenous woman from the Dayak Punan Tugung community, shared her traditional knowledge based on local wisdom in their customary territory. She emphasized the importance of local wisdom and the use of traditional medicines, or ethnobotany, which has been passed down for generations.

During her presentation, Nurhayati showcased various herbal plants that serve as remedies for health issues ranging from feverish feelings to poison antidotes.

"The forest is like a free supermarket and pharmacy for us. We can find all the necessities we need there. We cannot be separated from our customary forest," Nurhayati added.