Amid the green and tranquil forest edges, the people of Rantau Malam and Nanga Jelundung Villages live simple yet meaningful lives. In the face of illegal mining that slowly pollutes the rivers and disrupts nature’s balance, they remain steadfast in protecting the forest—because for them, safeguarding nature means preserving life itself.

Rantau Malam Village Health Cadres transport medicines to the mobile clinic

From May to October 2025, the ASRI Foundation has brought mobile healthcare services through the Mobile Clinic to these forest guardian villages. Here, Indigenous communities live side by side with nature, patiently awaiting the arrival of the ASRI Mobile Clinic team to receive medical care and health check-ups. “In my view, investing in Indigenous communities means investing in the most natural and effective forest protection system in the world. When they are healthy and prosperous, the forests stand tall, and the Earth keeps breathing.”  The journey to reach these remote villages is not merely a physical one, but a journey of conscience: eight hours navigating along the Kapuas River under the blazing sun, passing through landscapes that reveal two faces of the Earth—the lush beauty of thriving forests and the deep scars left by illegal mining that pollutes the waters and tears through the soil of life. Yet, amidst these wounds, hope continues to grow.

ASRI BBBR Health Staff distribute medication to mobile clinic patients after consulting with a doctor

Over six months of implementation, 766 people have received proper and compassionate medical care. During each visit, the Mobile Clinic team brings not only medicine but also a message of compassion—that caring for human health is just as important as caring for the forest, the very source of their sustenance. This activity also gained support from the local government, with the Head of Nanga Jelundung Village attending the occasion.

The Head of Nanga Jelundung Village provided support for ASRI activities

“Planetary health begins with small steps: one healed patient, one standing tree,” said Ardhiyoga, Project Manager of ASRI BBBR, who leads the implementation on the ground. The presence of the Mobile Clinic is more than just a healthcare program—it is a journey of love and respect for the forest guardians, those who, with steadfast hearts, choose to protect the Earth amidst the temptations of destruction. This is the true meaning of Planetary Health: when humans and nature heal one another, strengthen one another, and move forward together toward a healthier and more sustainable future. “When humans care for the forest, the forest, in turn, sustains life,” said Indra, Director of ASRI Kalimantan, reaffirming the philosophy that breathes through every step ASRI takes.