Carbon funds help East Kalimantan forest community develop stingless bee honey business
Samarinda (ANTARA) - Funding from carbon emission compensation, or carbon funds, has helped facilitate the community in the forest area of Kampung Ampen Medang, Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, in developing economic independence through stingless bee (kelulut) honey cultivation.
“The funding support from carbon emission compensation is very helpful for the residents of Kampung Ampen Medang in increasing bee colonies, thereby allowing the production capacity of the farmer groups to surge,” said the Head of the Berau Pantai Regional Technical Implementation Unit for Production Forest Management Unit (KPHP) of the East Kalimantan Forestry Service, Hamzah, in Samarinda on Friday.
According to him, the potential natural wealth in the form of sweet liquid from these stingless bees was initially not recognised by the local community as a business opportunity capable of providing financial profit.
Through a collaborative approach, the forestry technical implementation unit has guided villagers regarding the high market demand for this herbal product, which is known for its cancer-preventative properties.
“We did not merely distribute artificial beehive assistance in the initial stage, but also ensured that the cultivators received advanced skills from professional nature-based training institutions,” said Hamlar.
He explained that the management of this non-timber commodity business also provides an empowerment space for village women to be directly involved in sustainable social forestry activities.
The harvest of this honey, rich in health benefits, is now modernly packaged in 100ml bottles to make it more attractive when participating in various local exhibitions.
A single practical package is marketed at approximately Rp35,000, providing additional daily income for the treasury of the women’s management group.
“The synergy between eco-friendly village fund policies and the strong determination of the community is a manifestation that actions to preserve the ecosystem can give rise to financial independence,” he noted.
Hamzah added that all community members in the village have developed the awareness to continue protecting the tree canopy cover, as the sustainability of their business depends on the availability of bee forage in its natural habitat.