Winners of Misi Lestari and Local Photo Competition 2023 Explore Berau

Do you remember Misi Lestari? At the end of 2023, YKAN launched Misi Lestari campaign with two main activities: a photo competition and a running event. Through this initiative, we invited the public to support conservation efforts for the natural wealth of Berau, East Kalimantan, one of YKAN's operational areas. Agnes Yuliavitirani and Stevano Neilhatar, winners of the running competition, and Ridha Anshari, winner of the Local Photo Competition, embarked on an exciting journey to Berau with YKAN in mid-2024.

Read: Initial Steps for Community-Based Mangrove Protection and Restoration in Bangka Belitung

"I learned a lot from this trip. I got to see cocoa plantations and even participate in the harvest while observing the processing of the produce," said Agnes Yuliavitriani during her visit to Kampung Merasa. For Stevano Neilhatar, who visited East Kalimantan for the first time, this trip was a new experience. Exploring the karst mountains, experiencing the Kalimantan rainforest, visiting Maratua Island, and learning about its rich marine life were valuable experiences and lessons for him.

The winners also had the opportunity to learn about the coral restoration process initiated by community groups concerned about the environment on Maratua Island. Additionally, they met with a women's group supporting ecotourism on Maratua Island through their self-processed food products. "On this journey, I gained much experience and knowledge about turtle and coral conservation," concluded Ridha Anshari. 

For more exciting stories from their trip, check out this link.

Stay tuned for the next Misi Lestarim which will be held in 2025!