The forest gives us everything—water, food, and a future. If we take care of it today, it will take care of us and the generations to come. – Anti, KTH Kepuh member

Bringing the forest back to life

In the remote village of Panglungan, East Java, a group of villagers is taking matters into their own hands to save their land. KTH Kepuh, a women-led agroforestry cooperative, has been restoring forests, protecting water sources, and creating sustainable livelihoods for over 20 years.

It all started in 1999 when  Pak Wagisan, a local resident, saw the forest disappearing and the village’s water supply drying up. He rallied fellow farmers to plant trees, revive the springs, and form Forest Ranger Groups to guard against illegal logging. Over time, the community introduced ecotourism programs to showcase the forest’s biodiversity while generating much-needed income.

Women leading the fight

Today, the movement is powered by women like Anti and Nita, who balance farming with forest conservation. But it’s not without risks. In July 2023, Anti documented 17 illegally felled trees, one of which destroyed part of her coffee plantation. She reported the case despite threats from those responsible. With support from ECOTON, her efforts led to a government meeting and a new forest management plan, yet deforestation remains an ongoing battle.

From forest to marketplace

The women of KTH Kepuh don’t just protect the forest—they depend on it. Selling forest products like honey, cloves, and herbal drinks provides them with income. When they were excluded from village development plans, they didn’t wait for permission. Instead, they built their own Kepuh Forest Products’ Education Store through community cooperation, known as gotong royong. The store has already welcomed visitors from universities, inspiring the women to improve packaging and create new products like sambal kemiri (candlenut chili paste).

Raising their voices, expanding their impact

Anti is now stepping up as a spokesperson for KTH Kepuh, determined to amplify their cause and push for stronger conservation policies. “The forest gives us everything,” she says. “If we take care of it, it will take care of us.”

By standing up to illegal loggers, creating sustainable businesses, and educating others, the women of KTH Kepuh are proving that true change starts with the community. Their fight continues—but so does their unwavering commitment.