Photo by: Akbar Alfarisyi
Discover the heart of Belitung’s biodiversity on the Whistle Trail – named after the melodious whistle bird and home to the majestic white-tailed eagle. Led by Akbar Alfarisyi, a local biologist and conservationist, visitors are invited to explore the unique ecosystem thriving within Tanjung Kelayang Reserve. Akbar, who joined the reserve in 2022, has documented over 2,500 species of flora and fauna. A former university biology lecturer in Jakarta, he now dedicates his life to educating visitors and local communities, inspiring a new generation of nature guardians. During the morning walk, Akbar points out termite nests nibbled on by the Sunda pangolin – the world’s most trafficked mammal, now protected and reintroduced into the wild here. The trail is also home to the critically endangered Pelapak tree, once used for traditional boat-building. Visitors are encouraged to plant saplings and leave handwritten notes, joining the legacy of past guests including Miss Universe 2024 and National Geographic Indonesia. The journey continues with a ride to the reserve’s eco-friendly water plant. Using local kaolin clay, rainwater is filtered sustainably without deep-well drilling. Nearby, guests can taste honey straight from the stingless Trigona bee farm, managed by the Komunitas Pelabo Sijuk. Each drop of honey bursts with unique flavors – from tangy to sweet – a testament to the rich flora of the region. Akbar envisions the Tanjung Kelayang Reserve as a leading example of eco-tourism that balances research, education, and local empowerment. “Through tourism, we can protect our habitats and pass knowledge to the next generation,” he says. As the sun sets, an evening hike up Peramun Hill offers another unforgettable experience. Standing 129 meters high, this granite hill is rich in herbal plants and edible mushrooms, its name rooted in traditional medicine. Managed by the Arsel Community, the hill is a hotspot for biodiversity and cultural heritage. The highlight of the night? A glimpse of the elusive Billiton tarsier – a small nocturnal primate with wide, glowing eyes. To protect this endangered species, only three sightings are allowed per week with strict rules: no flash photography, silence, and a 10-minute observation limit. With guidance from local rangers, lucky visitors may spot one before it disappears into the shadows. To round out the experience, visitors can join a workshop with Sepiak Belitong, a community promoting sustainable crafts. Using natural dyes and leaves like wild kirinyuh, participants create eco-printed fabrics – turning nature into wearable art, while supporting local artisans and preserving traditional techniques. |