The Story of Ritno Kurniawan: From Timber Cutter to Eco-Tourism Guide in Padang Pariaman

Significant changes have occurred in Desa Sejahtera Astra Nyarai, Padang Pariaman Regency, West Sumatra, as the community shifts livelihoods from timber cutting to eco-tourism based on nature conservation.

This transformation has been pioneered by Ritno Kurniawan, who previously relied on timber cutting in the forest area. Now, he is one of the main drivers of eco-tourism development in the region.

Previously, the majority of villagers earned income from timber cutting, receiving around Rp100,000 per load, with an average frequency of three times a week. This activity carried high safety risks and the potential to damage the protected Bukit Barisan area.

Recognising the natural potential of Nyarai, which includes trekking trails, natural pools, and white-water rafting, Ritno has promoted community-based tourism development. These efforts were carried out through persuasive approaches and direct assistance to residents.

“The Nyarai area, located in the Bukit Barisan I region, is an area with great natural tourism potential. Previously, around 80% of the community depended on timber cutting income, with high risks to safety and significant environmental damage impacts. With consistent support, the community has begun to open up and gain confidence as tourism guides, with average incomes reaching Rp400–500,000 per week,” said Ritno in his statement on Wednesday (8/4/2026).

Changes became evident after support from the Desa Sejahtera Astra programme, which provided human resource training, equipment provision, and tourism attraction development such as white-water rafting. Within about three months, the community began acquiring skills as nature tourism guides.

Currently, there are 45 white-water rafting guides recorded, and more than 100 residents involved in tourism area management, with 25 people as core administrators. Some community members who previously worked as timber cutters have now switched to becoming certified tourism guides.

Increased tourism activity has also spurred village economic growth through the development of homestays, guide services, and other supporting businesses. Tourist visits, both domestic and international including from Malaysia, have further boosted community incomes.

“Astra is committed to continuing to support village transformations based on local potential. The sustainable eco-tourism development in Desa Sejahtera Astra Nyarai serves as an example that environmental preservation and community economic strengthening can go hand in hand. When communities gain access to training, capacity building, and the right ecosystem support, they not only have more stable and safe livelihoods but also actively contribute to sustainably maintaining the area’s preservation,” said Astra President Director Djony Bunarto Tjondro. (H-2)