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These tapang trees serve as natural nesting sites for bees that produce organic honey in Peruntan, Kecamatan Jangkang, Sanggau Regency, West Kalimantan. Illustration source: Masri Sareb Putra / Borneo Travel. |
The Dayak Research Center (DRC) - Sanggau, West Kalimantan – In a remarkable and pioneering effort, three faculty members from the Keling Kumang Institute of Technology (ITKK), namely Kristianus Heri Hartanto, Erwin, and Masri Sareb Putra, have embarked on a groundbreaking research project that seeks to unlock the secrets of organic honey production in Jangkang District, Sanggau, located in West Kalimantan.
This study not only aims to explore the origins of organic honey—highly regarded for its exceptional quality—but also seeks to highlight the delicate balance between the natural ecosystem and sustainable honey harvesting practices in a region rich in biodiversity.
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The research stands out for its originality and its focus on a largely underexplored subject—how the natural environment contributes to the production of organic honey, and how local communities have harnessed these natural resources in a way that is both environmentally and economically sustainable.
The honey produced by bees in the Jangkang District is not only unique due to the purity of its production, but it also reflects the richness of the tropical forest ecosystems and the minimal pollution that characterizes the area. By examining the interaction between the local flora, fauna, and microclimates, the researchers are uncovering the complex process by which bees collect nectar from a diverse array of plants, ultimately creating honey with distinct flavor profiles and health benefits that are highly valued.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this research is its exploration of the natural habitats of the bees in this region. Unlike many honey-producing regions where the bees are exposed to industrial farming methods or pollution, the bees in Jangkang live in near-pristine environments. The study examines how the lush rainforests of Kalimantan—some of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world—provide a rich source of nectar for the bees.
These forests, which are largely untouched by modern industrialization, allow the bees to forage on a wide variety of plants that give their honey a distinct taste and nutritional value. The research team is investigating the specific plant species that bees prefer in this region and how the unique environmental conditions contribute to the honey’s quality.
A major contribution of this study is the focus on the sustainable honey harvesting techniques employed by the local community. The people of Jangkang have long practiced traditional methods of beekeeping that prioritize the well-being of the bee colonies.
To harvest honey without destroying the bees’ hives or endangering the colonies
Unlike conventional honey harvesting techniques that may harm bee populations, the local beekeepers in Jangkang have developed a unique approach that allows them to harvest honey without destroying the bees’ hives or endangering the colonies. This practice not only ensures the continued production of honey but also contributes to the long-term health of the local ecosystem. By preserving the bee populations, the community is fostering a sustainable cycle where bees can continue to thrive and pollinate the surrounding flora, which, in turn, supports local biodiversity.
The research team, consisting of Kristianus Heri Hartanto, Erwin, and Masri Sareb Putra, is also exploring the broader socio-economic impact of organic honey production on the local community. The study aims to provide concrete recommendations for scaling up the production of organic honey in a way that benefits both the environment and the livelihoods of local farmers.
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By emphasizing the high market value of organic honey, which is increasingly in demand both domestically and internationally for its purity and health benefits, the researchers hope to help local honey producers gain better access to larger markets and increase their economic opportunities. This would, in turn, contribute to raising the standard of living for families in the region and provide a model for other areas to adopt similar sustainable practices.
“Through this research, we aim to showcase the incredible potential of organic honey produced in West Kalimantan and demonstrate how the harmonious relationship between local beekeepers and their environment can serve as a model for sustainable agricultural practices,” said Kristianus Heri Hartanto, the lead researcher.
“By understanding the local environment and integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation methods, we believe we can create a pathway for more sustainable livelihoods for the community while ensuring that the natural ecosystems that support honey production remain intact.”
In addition to its environmental and economic contributions, the research also focuses on the health benefits of the organic honey produced in the region. Many studies have highlighted the unique properties of honey produced in remote and pristine environments, where the bees forage on a wide variety of wild plants.
The honey from Jangkang, in particular, is known for its richness in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that make it a sought-after commodity. By studying the health properties of Jangkang honey, the research aims to contribute to a greater understanding of the health benefits associated with organic honey and its potential uses in both culinary and medicinal applications.
The findings of this research will be submitted to an accredited/Sinta journal, and the research team is hopeful that it will contribute to a growing body of knowledge that bridges the gap between traditional agricultural practices and modern sustainability efforts. The publication of these findings will also highlight the unique potential of organic honey production in Kalimantan and provide valuable insights into how other regions in Indonesia and around the world can develop similar sustainable agricultural practices.
A shining example of how academic inquiry can help elevate local knowledge and practices
The research conducted by the faculty members of ITKK is a shining example of how academic inquiry can help elevate local knowledge and practices while addressing pressing environmental and economic challenges.
By exploring the originality, uniqueness, and potential of organic honey production in Jangkang District, the study offers a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture that takes into account both ecological health and community well-being.
This research has the potential to revolutionize the honey industry in Indonesia. It also serves as a model for other regions seeking to develop sustainable, environmentally-friendly agricultural practices with a lasting positive impact on local communities and the planet.
The True Value of Organic Honey from Jangkang’s Natural Forests
Deep in the natural forests of Jangkang District, organic honey is produced in a way that remains true to tradition. Harvested from the towering tapang trees, this honey is not the result of commercial farming but a gift from nature itself. The process is entirely natural, relying on the forest’s ecosystem to sustain wild bee populations. Unlike mass-produced honey, which often comes from controlled beekeeping environments, this organic honey is collected using time-honored techniques passed down through generations.
The harvesting process is no easy task. Local honey gatherers must scale massive tapang trees, often reaching heights of 40 meters or more, to carefully extract the honeycombs without harming the bees or the environment. This requires skill, patience, and deep knowledge of the forest. Once collected, the honey undergoes traditional processing methods that preserve its purity, flavor, and medicinal properties. Given the labor-intensive process and the meticulous care taken at every stage, the price of Rp 150,000 per kilogram is more than fair when considering the balance between cost and benefit.
Beyond price, the difference between this organic honey and farmed honey is significant. The aroma, texture, and taste are uniquely rich, influenced by the diverse floral sources of the untouched rainforest. More importantly, its natural composition retains higher medicinal and nutritional value compared to commercially farmed honey. Many locals and honey enthusiasts recognize that this wild honey, produced by the indigenous communities of Jangkang, is superior in both quality and health benefits.
Choosing this organic honey is not just about purchasing a product—it’s about supporting a sustainable tradition that respects both nature and culture. It ensures that the people of Jangkang can continue their heritage while maintaining the delicate balance of their environment. For those who appreciate authenticity, quality, and the irreplaceable taste of nature’s bounty, this honey is truly a treasure worth savoring.
-- Rangkaya Bada
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