The Orchids of Krayan, North Kalimantan: A Jewel in Borneo's Natural Wealth

The charm of Krayan's natural beauty: wild and natural forest orchids.

On the banks of the Krayan River, North Kalimantan, unfolds a breathtaking sight: wild and natural orchids flourishing majestically amidst towering green trees. 

Here, the beauty of Borneo's nature truly manifests, with these orchids becoming a captivating sight.

As the sun illuminates the calm riverbank, the colorful orchids reflect light, creating mesmerizing glimmers. Some orchids hang from tree branches, while others stand tall among the bushes. 

They grow without restraint, showcasing their natural strength and elegance without disturbance.

These orchids are silent witnesses to the wild life

These orchids are silent witnesses to the wild life that still thrives in Krayan. They attract various insects and butterflies that flutter around, seeking abundant nectar. This symbiotic relationship creates a fragile yet resilient harmony in nature.

Against the backdrop of the tranquil flowing river, the appearance of these orchids becomes even more enchanting. They are steadfast representatives of the natural wealth that we must care for. 

Amidst the pressures of development and climate change, scenes like this serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving this fragile ecosystem.

Seeing wild orchids on the banks of the Krayan River is like witnessing a living, breathing natural wonder before our eyes. They are gifts that must be safeguarded and cherished, not only for us today but also for future generations. In their grace, we find inspiration to preserve this extraordinary beauty of nature for a better tomorrow.

The orchids of Krayan

The orchids of Krayan, North Kalimantan, are indeed a remarkable facet of Borneo's ecological tapestry. Nestled within this region, they stand as vivid symbols of nature's creativity and resilience. Each petal, each delicate stem tells a story of adaptation and survival in a land teeming with life.

Krayan's reputation as a haven for orchids is well-deserved, owing to the sheer beauty and diversity of species found here. Wander through the forest's verdant embrace, and you'll encounter these floral gems in a breathtaking array of colors and forms. 

From the crimson hues of the Vanda rothschildiana to the golden splendor of the Dendrobium chrysotoxum, the orchids of Krayan paint a vibrant portrait of nature's artistry.

But their allure goes beyond mere aesthetics. These orchids are the silent guardians of Krayan's ecosystem, their presence weaving a delicate web of interdependence. Their nectar-rich blooms serve as vital sustenance for a myriad of pollinators, from bees to butterflies, ensuring the continuation of life's cycle in these lush forests.

And let us not forget the custodians of this natural treasure – the Dayak Krayan tribe or Lundayeh. For generations, they have walked in harmony with the land, their traditions steeped in reverence for the flora and fauna that surround them. 

To Dayak Krayan, the orchids are not just flowers; they are living embodiments of ancestral wisdom, guiding their stewardship of the land for generations to come.

In the cool shade of the forest canopy, the orchids stand as silent sentinels, bearing witness to the passage of time. They are a testament to the resilience of life in the face of ever-changing landscapes, a reminder of the intricate dance between man and nature.

As we gaze upon the image of a wild orchid blooming along the banks of the Krayan River, let us marvel at the beauty that surrounds us.

Let us be inspired to tread lightly upon this earth, to cherish and protect its wonders for future generations. For in the delicate petals of a single orchid lies the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

Dayak Lundayeh: the custodians and heirs of the land of Krayan 

The majority of the inhabitants of the Krayan River are the Dayak Lundayeh people, consisting of sub-tribes Lengilo, Sa' Ben, Nan Ba, and Tana' Lun. It is these ancestors and native residents of Krayan who have been safeguarding and preserving the forests, ensuring the sustainability of various types of orchids and their vibrant colors until today. 

The isolation of the Heart of Borneo region has now been opened up with the construction of a road stretching 147 km from Malinau to Ba' Binuang, traversing up and down mountains through the Kayan Mentarang National Park.

• Masri Sareb Putra