Category: Farmer Story

Mekarjaya Village’s Farmers: Planting Forest, Sustaining Life

Nestled in the foothills of the Malabar Mountains in Bandung Regency – West Java, Mekarjaya Village lies surrounded by state forests and the towering 1,690-meter Sangar Mountain, which has drawn more visitors each year. This popularity has opened new opportunities of income for local communities through community-managed tourism.

Yet, the beauty of the forest that visitors admire today exists thanks to the tireless dedication of local forest farmers who have spent years planting and nurturing trees to keep their land alive. Without their efforts, Mekarjaya’s forest could have suffered the same fate as many other parts of the Malabar range – degraded by land conversion and extensive logging.

Sangar Mountain is located in the Mekarjaya Village in Bandung Regency, West Java.

Starting Greening Action Through Self-Reliance

Asep, one of the village’s farmers, remembered how his journey began when he moved to Mekarjaya in 2018 and quickly joined the community’s reforestation mission. “I already had extensive experience in cultivating and planting trees since 2010,” he recalled. “Together with several local communities, we collected gmelina seeds from the streets to produce our own seedlings. Later, we grew thousands of trees and planted barren land around us.”

With his experience, Asep became a strong supporter of Mekarjaya forest greening efforts. “Back then, we relied only on ourselves. We planted sandalwood, gmelina, eucalyptus – whatever we could – to protect the land we live, because much of the neighborhood forests were already gone,” he said.

Managing Forest Through Social Forestry

Alex, another forest farmer and leader of Mekarjaya Village’s social forestry group, shared how the community has taken collective responsibility to preserve the forest. Today, more than 100 villagers work together to manage around 140 hectares of state forest in their village.

“We began looking after the forest in 2008, when the government first opened the opportunity for communities to manage it. But it was only in 2017 that we officially gained the right through the social forestry scheme,” Alex explained.

Through this scheme, they hold a 35-year permit to manage the state forest – restoring and maintaining the land while being allowed to grow crops and fruit trees, but without cutting down forest trees. “Our responsibility is clear: restore and protect the forest by planting trees and keeping it healthy and lush,” Alex said.

Since 2017, the villagers have held annual tree-planting activities as part of their commitment to forest preservation. “At first, we used our own seedlings,” Alex continued. “But over time, many nature lovers and hikers began donating trees. Their support has allowed us to continue planting new trees year after year.”

Non-timber Harvesting and Preserving Native Tree Species

The Mekarjaya forest is rich in native West Javan tree species. “We have puspa, rasamala, saninten, ki semut, and many other tree species,” Alex said. To protect ecological health, the farmers prioritize hardwood and native trees, while for economic benefits, they grow multipurpose and fruit species.

“We mainly plant coffee to gain economic benefit, as it has high demand and this land is perfect for it,” Alex explained. “We also grow jackfruit, bitter bean, and avocado to harvest non-timber products.” Similarly, Asep focuses on cultivating non-timber trees such as coffee, sapodilla, and bananas. “I also grow damar pine trees – once they mature, they provide shade, while I can harvest their sap,” he added.

Another farmer, Sutajaya, has chosen a different path. He focuses on creating an arboretum of native trees to support tourism and education. “As Sangar Mountain attracts more hikers, I established an arboretum where visitors can learn about biodiversity while climbing to the mountain,” he explained.

Trees4Trees Support: Planting Trees Empowering Communities

In 2021, when Trees4Trees and TREEO launched a tree-planting initiative, farmers in Mekarjaya eagerly joined the program. Around 30,000 trees were distributed, accelerating reforestation and creating a healthier and more resilient forest.

“This program truly helps us, as the trees allow us to restore our forest more quickly and enhance economic benefit for local forest farmers,” Alex said. While for Sutajaya, the program goes beyond economic benefits. “As the trees grow bigger and stronger each day, they provide oxygen and restore balance to the ecosystem. Native species are thriving, creating habitats for wildlife while improving air and water quality. For me, that’s the most important benefit,” he reflected.

A view of the state forest in Mekarjaya Village from afar, where local farmers have planted trees.

Together, the dedication of local forest farmers and the support from initiatives like Trees4Trees and TREEO are breathing new life into Mekarjaya’s forests. What was once threatened by degradation is now transforming into a thriving ecosystem that not only safeguards biodiversity but also sustains the people who depend on it. “Those trees make our forest more abundant. They hold immense ecological and economic value that sustain our environment and strengthen the lives of our community,” Alex said.

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani.

#FarmerStory #GunungPengaron #Mekarjaya bandung trees4trees

Samino: Bringing Life Back to His Village Land

In this day and age, where everything moves fast and hyperconnected, people are drawn to validation. Many seek more recognition, more follows, more engagement, or simply acknowledgment in various aspects of life. So, it’s not surprising that a lot of people think value comes from recognition. But that’s not always true, is it?

Realistically, everyone wants to be known in one way or another. It’s easy to be drawn to those who do the bare minimum in front of a camera while overlooking those making a real impact away from the spotlight.

Meanwhile, in Kedungwringin Village, Kebumen, Central Java, far from the noise, rush of the city, even cameras, Samino had been working the land for over 20 years as a farmer. Each morning, he walks the same path to his fields, the earth beneath his feet familiar, the routine unchanged. “For me, farming is a calling and commitment to Mother Nature,” he said with his humble smile.

Becoming a Tree Grower and Facing Challenges of Farming

That day, the sky was clear, unlike usual when rain often poured down. With steady steps, Samino walked 300 meters to his field, just as he did every day. Behind him, the Trees4Trees team followed while observing his farm, taking notes, and preparing to document his story.

Samino, 45, is a father of three children who are still in school. In addition to farming, he also runs a carpentry business at home, making door frames to supplement his income. Although he only completed elementary school, his passion for farming and learning new things has never faded.

His strong spirit and dedication earned him with title of Best Farmer in Kebumen in 2023—an impressive achievement considering he had only joined as a partner farmer earlier that year. It was a clear sign that his care for the land and the trees wasn’t just for show. Still, farming in his village comes with its fair share of challenges.

Samino has planted 230 tree seedlings with Trees4Trees — and he’s not stopping there. He’s ready to plant even more in the future.

The dry season often brings drought, and pest attacks can wipe out an entire harvest. But giving up isn’t in his nature. Alongside his fellow members in the Kapokan Kedungwringin farmer group, he keeps pushing forward, taking part in efforts like making organic fertilizer to enrich the soil and lessen their reliance on chemical solutions.

Samino proudly stands beside the Jabon tree he planted in 2023 with Trees4Trees. His biggest goal is to help restore the barren and neglected land in his village.

“Being a farmer is enjoyable; there’s a unique satisfaction in using the harvest we grow ourselves,” Samino shared with a warm, contented grin.

Planting Trees: Reviving the Dry Land in His Village

Samino has a big vision for his village. He doesn’t want to see empty land go to waste or the village turn barren. Because of this deep concern, he volunteered to become a field facilitator for Trees4Trees—helping spread the word about the program to other farmers and acting as a bridge between them and the field coordinator. As a tree grower, he’s received 230 seedlings, most of them jabon (Anthocepalus cadamba). That choice was intentional—he believes jabon will make his land more productive in the long run.

Through the program, Samino also joined a training on making livestock feed to be used as a feed bank. It’s proven to be very useful, especially since he raises livestock himself. For him, farming is more than work—it’s something that speaks to his soul. He once tried his luck in Jakarta as a furniture worker, but city life, with all its noise and pollution, never felt like home.

“I spent some time working in Jakarta, but my heart has always belonged to the village—with its clean air and the abundance of nature,” he said.

When he returned home, he was shocked to see so much barren land. “What really struck me when I came back was how dry and empty the land had become. That’s when I felt the urge to do something about it,” he added.

Planting with Purpose, Living with Heart

When the Trees4Trees team came to visit, Samino proudly showed them the trees he had planted. He hopes that one day, these trees will not only improve his livelihood but also bring lasting benefits to his children and grandchildren. He often reminds others of the importance of caring for the trees properly to get the best results.

Aziz Arifandi, the Field Coordinator for Kedungwringin Village, described him as a cooperative and passionate tree grower. “At first, he was shy and quiet, but once you get to know him, he’s actually really easy to talk to,” Aziz said. “He’s a peaceful, calm person—someone other farmers feel comfortable around when having discussions.”

Samino with Aziz (right), Trees4Trees’ field coordinator. He was delighted by the team’s visit to monitor the trees that day.

According to Aziz, drought and pests remain the biggest challenges for farmers in the village. He hopes the tree growers will become more enthusiastic and communicative in facing these issues so the village can grow greener. Among them all, Samino stands out—he’s always the most excited whenever the Trees4Trees team visits.

But there’s more to Samino than just his dedication to planting trees, when he’s tired from working in the fields, Samino has a simple way of unwinding—fishing and playing his guitar. The soft strum of the strings brings him a sense of peace. Through his dedication to farming and reforesting the land, Samino proves that when you work with heart and determination, it’s possible to create meaningful change for the environment and for the next generation.

Writer: Teresia K. Miranti. Interview and compiled source: Aziz Arifandi. Photos: Henning Ilmi W

#FarmerStory #Piyama #Samino kebumen

Supporting Women Farmers Through Reforestation in the Citarum Watershed

Most people living upstream of the Citarum watershed, which spans West Bandung Regency in West Java, make their living from farming. For Sundanese – the main ethnic group in West Java – this is more than just a source of income. It is a tradition passed down through generations. Many of the farming community here are women, most of whom have been working the land from an early age.

Over 5,000 woman farmers have participated in tree-planting activities since Trees4Trees first began its Citarum watershed reforestation efforts in 2021 (around a quarter of the total turnout). With funding support from AstraZeneca and One Tree Planted, these women have been able to preserve family traditions and improve their economic independence; their participation also highlights the key role women must play in restoring the environment and strengthening communities.

Family, Farming and Tradition: Continuing the Legacy in West Java

“I’ve never left my village and have worked the soil with my family since I was a teenager,” explains Aisha (60), from Ancolmekar Village. She is one of many local women who have dedicated their lives to farming.

Aisha joined Trees4Trees as a grower in 2021 and quickly demonstrated her exceptional skills. In 2022, she was recognized as one of the best farmers in the area. “My farming skills have improved over time,” she explains, “because farming has been my habit for decades, sharpening my ability to nurture every plant I grow.”

Iis Hasanah (47), from Cijambu Village, spent 11 years working abroad as a household servant in Saudi Arabia before returning home to settle down and continue her family legacy of farming. “After elementary school, my mother often brought me to the field,” she remembers, “which showed me how to sow seeds and grow trees and crops.” She now splits her time between farming and caring for her son, passing her skills on to the next generation.

Iis Hasanah and Aisyah — Iis Hasanah (left) and Aisah (right) have determined to work the land and continue their family legacy.

Nurturing Families by Caring for Nature

For some women, farming offers a connection to their roots. For others, it is a way to provide for their families. Maryati (43) from Kutawaringin Village began farming in her 20s to supplement her family’s income and put her two children through school.

“In addition to shade trees, I chose to plant fruit and coffee trees due to their competitive prices,” says Maryati. “This way, I can help my husband earn additional income and save more money to secure our family’s economy.”

Supporting Women Farmers — Maryati prunes the leaves of a burflower-tree, part of her daily commitment to care for trees she has planted.

Kokom, from Mekarjaya Village, has been farming for 10 years. On her plot measuring 700 sqm, she grows cassava and peanuts, along with fruit trees. “I sell fruits like avocado, along with coffee and cloves, to cover my children’s needs,” she says. “Crops like cassava, peanuts, and vegetables are for family consumption, which helps us save money on food.”

Women’s Empowerment: The Key to Environmental Preservation

The active participation of women in Trees4Trees’ Citarum watershed restoration efforts demonstrate their determination to be productive. Andini Mulyani, a woman farmer from Mekarjaya Village, believes women are equally capable of contributing to their communities as men. “It’s not about competing with men,” she says, “but having equal opportunities and roles. Farming isn’t only for men, women can do it too.”

Through the Citarum watershed reforestation initiative, women are given equal opportunities in tree-planting, including access to seedlings, training and capacity building, and various other benefits. These resources empower them, not only to contribute to their community and families, but to positively impact the surrounding environment. “We receive free seedlings, the yield is ours, and the training sessions help women farmers like us improve our knowledge,” says Iis.

Despite living near the watershed, many areas in the Citarum watershed face drought and water scarcity. Aisha believes tree-planting activities enable women to collectively address these environmental challenges.

“Drought, landslides, and water shortages are common issues here,” she says. “The planting initiative from Trees4Trees gives us the chance to preserve water, prevent disasters, and develop our livelihoods while improving the surrounding environment.”

By empowering women farmers as tree-growing partners, Trees4Trees’ Citarum watershed reforestation program is restoring degraded lands and building community resilience to the impacts of climate change. Crucially, these positive impacts are rooted in local tradition and the principles of gender equality within sustainable social forestry practices.

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Editor: Chris Alexander. Photos: Zaki Luqman, Giri Satriyo, Adia Mufidz, Kemas Duga Muis for Trees4Trees

citarum woman farmers women empowerement women farmers

Eco-Friendly Farming: Cicalengka Farmers Move Beyond Timber Logging

For farmers in Nagrog Village, Cicalengka District, West Java, farming is not just a job that fulfills their daily lives, but a cultural heritage passed down through generations. Most of them inherit family land, which they manage by growing crops and trees. They harvest and sell their yield, providing them with a decent livelihood.

Traditionally, crops like chili, banana, citronella grass, clove buds, and some vegetables formed their primary harvests. They also cultivated trees like burflower (jabon), gmelina, and albizia (sengon), earning income by logging and selling the timbers. However, in recent years, many of them have recognized the need to adopt more environmentally friendly practices to secure their livelihood for the future.

From Harvesting Timber to a New Eco-Friendly Farming Model

“Logging trees for timber is an outdated way to earn income,” said Faisal, one of Nagrog Village’s farmers. “For us, cutting down the trees and selling the timber is a thing of the past. We’re transitioning to a farming model focused on growing trees without cutting them down. Tree cover is essential for preventing erosion and controlling rainwater runoff in our village,” he explained.

In recent years, the farmers in Nagrog Village have united to create a greener future. As an initial step, they have shifted their focus to cultivating more trees and crops, prioritizing the sustainable harvest of fruits and leaves over cutting timber.

Eco-Friendly Farming — Faizal took a rest after working on his land in Nagrog Village

Maximizing Cloves and Citronella Grass

Clove trees and citronella grass are the main crops they cultivate lately. “Clove buds fetch a good price in the market. It’s 80,000 rupiah per kilogram,” shared Agus, another farmer. “Citronella grass grows exceptionally in our village land, with consistent demand and good prices as it’s used for essential oils,” he added. Agus also noted Arabica coffee’s potential, priced between 15,000 and 18,000 rupiah per kilogram, although market fluctuations are a challenge. “So, we need to diversify crops and fruit trees to stabilize our income,” he emphasized.

On the other hand, Yaya, another farmer, faces different challenges when growing cloves due to his open land exposed with direct sunlight. “The dry season has always been tough, especially last year. Many of my young clove trees didn’t survive the heat. My crops also struggled,” he said. “I’ve used shading nets, but I think more shade trees are needed to reduce the heat and improve their survival rate,” he said.

Agus is taking care of burflower trees he planted, ensuring they grow healthy.

Greener Future with Tree Planting Support

In 2022, new hope arrived for the green initiatives taken by farmers in Nagrog Village. EcoMatcher, in collaboration with Trees4Trees introduced a tree planting program that engaged local farmers as tree grower partners. Among the participants were Faizal, Agus, and Yaya, who benefited from the program.

“I received over 400 tree seedlings of clove and burflowers trees. This really helped me since I can’t afford them on my own,” said Yaya. He considered cloves to enhance the existing trees he planted, and burflowers to provide shade for his sun-scorched land.

Faisal highlighted how the program supports farmers in multiple ways, not only providing free seedlings but also advanced farming knowledge. It includes teaching farmers with agroforestry technique to optimize results both income and environmental health.

“We planted burflower trees to provide shade for our crops. Citronella grasses were planted on sloped lands to prevent erosion, and clove trees were added to our existing stock, offering valuable buds in six years while benefiting the environment. We’re truly grateful for this program,” Faisal said.

Cultivating Hope for the Future

With increased tree cover supporting their green initiatives, farmers are now exploring further innovations. “Clove trees offer benefits beyond the buds; their leaves can be used for essential oil production. We’re also looking into enhancing income from citronella grasses by producing essential oils ourselves, because the demand is high, and the market is competitive,” said Faisal.

However, a lack of production machinery and knowledge remains a challenge for them. Despite this, they remain hopeful about realizing their dream. “With more trees planted, we believe doors open to further improvements in our sustainable farming practices,” added Faisal.

In line with Faisal, Agus expressed his commitment to working with fellow farmers in his village to implement environmentally friendly farming practices. “I’m no longer interested in logging trees for timber. By preserving trees, we protect the environment and safeguard our village’s water sources for our community’s lasting survival. I think that is the most important thing,” he said.

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Photo: Kemas Duga Muis

#EcoFriendlyFarmer #EcoMatcher reforestation trees4trees

I’m Imah, a Woman Farmer, and It’s My Right to Reforest and Uplift My Village

I’m Imah, a Woman Farmer

It was like any other season in Gunungsari Village, Kebumen. The long dry season had turned the trees brown, and the land was starting to crack from the lack of moisture. Despite the harsh conditions, the villagers remained committed to their fields, and farming as they always had. While preparing together with the team, we joked with each other and said hello to the villagers who passed by around us. Not long after that Imah joined us, with a shy smile.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, I was finishing up some cooking,” she said.

In supporting the role of women, Trees4Trees emphasizes their involvement by partnering with local women, like Imah. A loving wife and a persistent farmer; that is what she is. Together with Lailatul KH, Trees4Trees’ Field Coordinator, she worked hand in hand to keep Gunungsari Village green. Besides joining Trees4Trees, Imah also actively participated in community activities like the PKK (a village women’s association).

According to Imah, women are the backbone of the rural economy, especially in the agriculture role. Beyond farming, women are efficient in managing household finances and ensuring food security for their families. Today, Imah contributes to her household income by selling agricultural produce while her husband focuses on cultivating their fields. For her, women farmers can support other micro-businesses, such as food production, crafts, and various other village-based enterprises.

Despite her accomplishments, Imah acknowledges the challenges women face, including gender inequality, education gaps, and limited access to farmland. Often, women are underestimated in their ability to manage land. However, the most significant obstacle that affects their farming economy is competition with large businesses that tend to manipulate harvest prices.

“I once joined a women farmers’ empowerment program from both government and non-governmental organizations, including Trees4Trees. Through these programs, I gained valuable skills that can be used to improve my future endeavors,” Imah shared.

Women’s contributions to the household are significant, and so are their roles in other areas.

She believes that women’s contributions make up 50% of the overall effort in farming, where they serve and assist in the fields, boosting family income and inspiring other women farmers.

“We need support and encouragement to not be afraid of becoming farmers. Farmers can succeed, and we need society to appreciate the work of female farmers,” Imah expressed.

Imah joined the Trees4Trees program two years ago, motivated by her desire for more experience and the availability of new tree species that were not previously accessible. Through the program, she has received hundreds of trees, including suren, coffee, and sengon, as well as corn crops that provide essential food supplies for her family.

“Before this, I only planted cassava. Now, my land is filled with trees from Trees4Trees,” Imah said happily. Her hope in participating in the program is to become a modern, progressive woman farmer and build a strong household.

“The benefits are not yet fully felt, but at least the money that would have been spent on buying seedlings can now be used for other needs,” she explained.

“Through these programs, I gained valuable skills and met other women farmers like myself. I have also participated in household economic management training with Trees4Trees and hope to join their upcoming workshop on utilizing corn waste for briquette production, as I manage the corn provided by Trees4Trees.”

Imah, together with Ratiyem, a woman farmer in her village.

A hardworking and devoted wife.

Lailatul KH, the Trees4Trees field coordinator, added, “Bu Imah is hardworking, devoted to her husband, and often helps him in the fields.”

She hopes that more women will join the program, recognizing the significant role they play in farming. Tasks like weeding and harvesting are heavily dependent on women, and by increasing the number of women participating in these programs, productivity and family welfare will improve.

Imah is a living example of how a woman is supported with the right resources and trusted for her abilities to succeed, she not only transforms her own life but becomes an example for so many others to take charge of their paths.

Written by Teresia Miranti | Source compiled by Lailatul KH | Photograph by Y. Desennita

#FarmerStory #Kebumen #Imah

Parjono from Durensawit: From Canvas to Crops

Time is a strange thing. Some days it can feel like there’s too much time, but when you’re surrounded by the right people, and doing what you love, time has a way of feeling fleeting. That’s how it is for Pak Parjono, our 40-year-old resilience farmer. Beneath his tan skin and thick Javanese accent, he is far from ordinary.

Behind his busy days managing his farmland, Pak Parjono is also a passionate artist. Since his youth, painting has been his escape, and even now, his artwork brings in extra income. Besides farming, he teaches religious studies at the local madrasa and raises livestock in his spare time. When exhaustion sets in, he retreats to his garden, where the greenery offers calm.

Parjono is carrying one of his sketches.

Since joining Trees4Trees in 2017, Parjono has become a senior farmer, starting with teak and fruit trees like soursop. This year, he’s planting timber trees like sengon and jabon, along with avocado trees, continuing his dedication to reforestation.

One of the things he values most about Trees4Trees is the training they offer. He hopes that in the future, there will be additional training, such as grafting techniques or other cultivation methods to help farmers become more skilled in caring for their plants.

Parjono’s Journey from Malaysia to a Fulfilling Life as a Farmer in Durensawit Village

An adventurer might be a very suitable word to describe Pak Parjono. Before settling into farming, he spent five years working abroad in Malaysia, taking on jobs in welding, livestock, and construction. Yet, when he returned to Indonesia, he found that farming was his true calling. “Farming suits me better because it brings me peace, seeing my land lush and fertile,” he recalled.

Parjono is planting a tree from Libra Palma and Trees4Trees.

Proud of his role as a farmer, Parjono believes that working with nature offers both healing and learning. “Maybe today’s generation feels ashamed to be farmers, but we contribute so much to the environment and the economy,” he added. He hopes his children will one day follow in his footsteps, helping to preserve the environment and take part in green initiatives that benefit the Earth.

Despite challenges such as prolonged droughts and crop failures, Parjono remains optimistic. He constantly reminds his fellow farmers not to tire of planting and caring for the trees provided by Trees4Trees. “I am grateful to Libra Palma for providing seedlings and facilitating farmers to gain knowledge on greening our village,” he added.

Parjono’s Inspiring Impact on Trees4Trees

The spirit of Pak Parjono has inspired Marthan, the Trees4Trees Field Coordinator in Pati to keep spreading kindness and sharing good things around Durensawit Village. “Pak Parjono is not only a dedicated farmer but also a mentor to his peers. His perseverance and enthusiasm for learning and planting more types of trees inspire us all,” said Marthan enthusiastically.

With a humble smile, Parjono shares a few jabon trees he planted with Trees4Trees in 2023, now flourishing and growing beautifully.

The harsh reality is addressing climate change and motivating farmers to be aware of and committed to greening the village. But Marthan is grateful for working side by side with Pak Parjono. He often helps Marthan to encourage other farmers to join the Trees4Trees reforestation program and even takes part in conserving the village’s water sources by planting trees around springs.

In a world where everything is fast-paced, looking back and finding that little inspiration around our daily lives seems like a rare gift. Pak Parjono’s quiet determination show us that positive change often starts with small steps. Together, with the support from Libra Palma and Trees4Trees they remind us that no matter the challenges, the work we do today can leave a lasting impact on our environment and future generations.

Written by Teresia Miranti | Source compiled by Marthan Saputra | Photograph by Marthan Saputra

#LibraPalma farmer kebumen trees4trees