Purwo Harsono, Sosok dibalik Hutan Pinus Mangunan Bantul | SOSOK

Summary

This video highlights the inspiring journey of Purwoharsono, a pioneer in environmental conservation and tourism development at Hutan Pinus Mangunan in Bantul, Indonesia. Since 2015, he has led efforts to transform a marginal agricultural area into a thriving pine forest, promoting sustainable tourism while preserving the environment. Despite initial skepticism, his vision has flourished, earning recognition such as the Kalpataru award. The video also emphasizes the significance of cultural heritage, community empowerment, and the importance of youth engagement in preserving nature and traditions for future generations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hutan Pinus Mangunan is a popular tourist destination located in the Seribu Mountain range, renowned for its well-maintained pine forests and natural beauty.
• 😀 The forest's sustainability is ensured by dedicated management efforts, with the belief that maintaining the forest is essential for life preservation.
• 😀 Purwoharsono, an inspiring figure, initiated the forest's tourism development in 2015, leading to its eventual recognition with the Kalpataru Award in 2021 for environmental pioneers.
• 😀 In the 1960s, the area was marginal farmland, but through government and community efforts, it transformed into a protected forest that provides benefits to the local farming community.
• 😀 The motivation for developing the forest as a tourist site stemmed from opportunities in national regulations allowing the sustainable use of protected forests for tourism activities.
• 😀 The project faced challenges, particularly in aligning the interests of local communities with the conservation of the forest, but strategic communication with stakeholders helped overcome these hurdles.
• 😀 Purwoharsono views forests as vital for human survival, emphasizing their role in providing oxygen, water, and preventing natural disasters such as landslides.
• 😀 Although not the primary goal, the Kalpataru Award was a valuable recognition of the forest's transformation and its growing role as a tourism destination in Bantul.
• 😀 The cooperative Notowono, part of the forest's management, has developed several businesses, including a café and various tourism-related activities, to support local livelihoods.
• 😀 The forest's tourism offers unique experiences, such as sunrise views, misty landscapes, and photo opportunities, all while fostering a deeper connection to nature and local culture.

Q & A

What inspired Purwoharsono to turn Hutan Pinus Mangunan into a tourist destination?

Purwoharsono was motivated by the need to ensure both the economic well-being of local farmers and the conservation of the forest. He recognized the opportunity for eco-tourism to provide an alternative source of income while preserving the environmental integrity of the forest.

How did the community initially engage with the forest before it became a tourist spot?

Initially, the community utilized the forest for agriculture and later for the production of pine resin. When the resin production became unsustainable, the community shifted towards managing the forest as a resource for eco-tourism, guided by local regulations allowing for the sustainable use of protected forest areas.

What was the role of the government in the transformation of Hutan Pinus Mangunan?

The government played a pivotal role by supporting the transformation of the marginal agricultural land into a forested area. This was part of a broader plan to improve the ecosystem and provide sustainable benefits to the local community.

What is the Kalpataru Award, and why did Purwoharsono receive it?

The Kalpataru Award is the highest recognition in Indonesia for individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental conservation. Purwoharsono received the award in 2021 for his pioneering efforts in managing Hutan Pinus Mangunan in an environmentally sustainable way while involving the local community.

What are the main benefits of eco-tourism in Hutan Pinus Mangunan for the local community?

Eco-tourism in Hutan Pinus Mangunan provides the local community with sustainable income opportunities through tourism activities, including guiding, hospitality, and the sale of local products. It also promotes environmental awareness and conservation, ensuring the long-term health of the forest.

How does the forest management ensure its sustainability while supporting tourism?

The forest management prioritizes conservation by limiting harmful activities such as excessive tapping of pine resin. Through community education and collaboration with local authorities, they ensure that the forest's ecological functions are maintained while allowing for controlled, responsible tourism.

What unique natural features make Hutan Pinus Mangunan a popular tourist destination?

Hutan Pinus Mangunan is known for its breathtaking panoramic views, especially during early morning hours when mist covers the landscape. It also offers visitors a serene environment surrounded by dense pine trees, making it ideal for photography, hiking, and connecting with nature.

What cultural elements are integrated into the eco-tourism initiatives in Hutan Pinus Mangunan?

Cultural elements are deeply integrated through initiatives like 'kenduri mertiwono,' a traditional ceremony that expresses gratitude to nature. Additionally, cultural performances such as 'sendratari Mataram' are planned to showcase Mataram's history and traditions, enriching the tourism experience.

What was the community's initial reaction to the idea of developing eco-tourism in the forest?

Initially, there was some resistance due to a lack of understanding and concerns about forest conservation. However, after clear communication and socialization about the benefits of eco-tourism and forest preservation, the majority of the community became supportive of the initiative.

What message does Purwoharsono have for the younger generation regarding local tourism development?

Purwoharsono encourages the younger generation to remain persistent in the face of challenges. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the potential in their surroundings and continuing to learn, adapt, and work towards sustainable development in both nature conservation and cultural preservation.