Java’s legendary endemic wildlife faces an extinction crisis as rampant deforestation destroys critical habitats. Once-abundant species of monkeys, gibbons, and lorises now teeter on the brink of extinction, while isolated populations of fishing cats, Asiatic wild dogs, Javan warty pigs, and banteng (wild cattle ancestors) struggle to survive in scattered forest fragments. 

For the 2,500 residents of Kaputihan and Papayan Villages, forest destruction is both an environmental and humanitarian crisis. These farming communities depend on healthy forests for their survival—tree-shaded springs provide essential water for daily needs and rice field irrigation, while forest root systems prevent catastrophic landslides in the mountainous terrain. However, illegal logging continues as people cut trees for livestock pens and firewood, further fragmenting these vital ecosystems. 

Through community meetings, both villages committed to jointly monitor and protect 99 acres of forest, divided between two tracts located 800 meters apart. Their conservation strategy includes community outreach, signage, and strategic replanting of native fruit trees like durian and mangosteen around forest edges, with priority given to spring areas. 

A Seacology grant is supporting this grassroots conservation effort by funding much-needed infrastructure. First, a centrally located community center will serve both villages for public meetings. It will also promote locally controlled ecotourism, by providing a space to welcome visitors and sell traditional crafts and food. Second, water pipes will deliver fresh spring water directly to Kaputihan Village homes. This will address the chronic water shortages that particularly burden women who traditionally fetch water, and will improve public health by reducing waterborne illnesses among vulnerable children. 

Working with partner organization Nurul Falah Foundation, which focuses on village education and community empowerment, this project exemplifies Seacology’s core mission of protecting unique island ecosystems while supporting sustainable development.