Author: Editor Desk
When American rapper Azealia Banks tweeted, “Indonesia is the trash can of the world,” the statement stirred a storm online. Indonesian netizens didn’t hold back their responses, but behind the outrage lies a pressing question: was she really wrong? Banks argued that Indonesia, much like India, had become one of the most polluted places on Earth. She claimed the country receives waste from around the world, putting its people’s health at risk for generations to come. Instead of billionaires like Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos pouring billions into space tourism, Banks said they’d better spend their money tackling global waste…
When people talk about natural resources from tropical countries, coconut is often one of the first things that comes to mind. While most people think about coconut water or coconut oil, there’s another part of the fruit that has been gaining massive attention in international trade: coconut fiber, also known as coir. This fibrous material comes from the outer husk of the coconut and has become one of the most versatile, eco-friendly, and in-demand raw materials in global markets. In this article, we’ll explore what affects the coconut fiber export price, how it’s produced, the standards for export, and the…
When people think about the dangers of the ocean, the first image that usually pops into their minds is a shark. Huge jaws, rows of razor-sharp teeth, and that heart-pounding soundtrack from Jaws have done their job in cementing sharks as the ultimate villains of the sea. Movies and media often portray them as unstoppable killing machines, lurking just beneath the waves, ready to strike. But here’s the surprising truth: sharks aren’t nearly as deadly as their reputation suggests. In fact, the real killer of the ocean is a creature you might not even notice until it’s too late—a nearly…
When people talk about Maluku, also known as the Spice Islands of Indonesia, the first things that often come to mind are its turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine life. For centuries, these islands have depended heavily on the sea as their primary source of food and livelihood. Yet today, the region faces a serious challenge: the rapid depletion of fish stocks and the degradation of marine ecosystems caused by overfishing, destructive fishing methods, and the pressures of globalization. Against this backdrop, one ancient practice has stood the test of time—sasi laut, a traditional community-based system that regulates…
When travelers talk about Puru Kambera, many immediately think of its pristine beach—Pantai Puru Kambera—an idyllic stretch of white sand just 24 kilometers from Waingapu in East Sumba. But beyond the shoreline, this destination holds another gem: a golden savanna where wild horses roam freely against the backdrop of the open sky. Beyond the Beach: The Allure of the Savanna While the beach itself is stunning, the real surprise comes about two to three kilometers before you even reach the coast. Here lies Puru Kambera Savanna, a sweeping landscape that looks like it’s been painted in strokes of gold and…
When you think of luxury coffee, chances are Kopi Luwak comes to mind. This Indonesian specialty, often referred to as civet coffee, has fascinated coffee enthusiasts around the globe not just for its rich and smooth taste, but also for its unusual and elaborate production process. Unlike any other coffee in the world, it involves the natural selection and digestion process of a small animal known as the Asian palm civet, or luwak. With its cultural roots, rarity, and craftsmanship, Kopi Luwak is far more than just a drink—it is an experience steeped in tradition, history, and an unmistakable connection…
Few ocean creatures have fueled human imagination as much as the oarfish. Known in Indonesia as ikan sabuk or “belt fish” due to its long, ribbon-like body, this enigmatic animal has earned legendary nicknames across the globe. In some cultures, it’s called the sea dragon, shimmering like a mythological serpent gliding through the deep. Even more chilling, many Asian traditions call it the “doomsday fish,” a name born from the belief that its rare appearances foretell disasters. These titles are not without reason. The oarfish is the longest bony fish in the world, with recorded specimens stretching beyond 36 feet…
A Rare Glimpse of a Prehistoric Survivor In the deep waters of Maluku, Indonesia, a team of international researchers made a breathtaking discovery in October 2024. Using advanced diving technology, they managed to capture footage of Latimeria menadoensis, Indonesia’s very own coelacanth. Often referred to as a “living fossil,” this elusive fish has barely changed in appearance since the time of the dinosaurs. For marine biologists, it was more than just a rare sighting—it was a reminder that the ocean still holds countless secrets from Earth’s ancient past. Why the Coelacanth is Called a Living Fossil Coelacanths are part of…
West Sumatra, widely known as Ranah Minang, is strengthening its reputation as one of Indonesia’s top Muslim-friendly travel destinations. According to the Indonesia Muslim Travel Index (IMTI) 2025, the province has shown remarkable progress compared to its 2023 performance, making it even more appealing for domestic and international Muslim travelers. A Stronger Position in Indonesia Muslim Travel Index The IMTI 2025 assessment highlights how West Sumatra’s tourism sector has improved not only in basic attributes such as accessibility and hospitality but also in creating meaningful travel experiences for visitors. R. Wisnu Rahtomo, Chairman of IMTI 2025 from the Enhaii Halal…
The ocean is full of mysteries, but sometimes it throws us something so unusual that it makes the whole world pause. That’s exactly what happened off the coast of Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica, when a recreational fisherman came across a nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) unlike any other. Instead of the typical dull brown color, this shark glowed with a bright orange body and had ghostly white eyes that looked almost supernatural. The shark, measuring about two meters long, was documented at a depth of 37 meters before being released back into the sea. What makes this encounter so remarkable…