KEHATI Foundation, established in 1994 by Prof. Emil Salim and other prominent figures, continues its mission of preserving Indonesia’s biodiversity through new generations of leadership.
The KEHATI Foundation, one of Indonesia’s leading organizations in biodiversity conservation, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024. Since its establishment in 1994, the foundation has been at the forefront of efforts to protect and sustain Indonesia’s rich natural heritage. The initiative was spearheaded by a group of influential figures, including Prof. Emil Salim, a respected environmentalist and former Minister of Environment, alongside Prof. Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri, Ismid Hadad, Erna Witoelar, Kismadi, and Nono Anwar Makarim. These founders laid the groundwork for what has become a vital force in Indonesia’s environmental movement.
Over the past three decades, KEHATI has implemented numerous programs aimed at preserving biodiversity, supporting sustainable agriculture, and promoting environmental awareness across the nation. Through its work, the foundation has not only safeguarded endangered species and ecosystems but also empowered local communities by integrating conservation with economic development. KEHATI’s initiatives have demonstrated how preserving biodiversity can go hand-in-hand with improving livelihoods, fostering a model of sustainable growth that benefits both nature and society.
As part of the anniversary celebration, the foundation has launched a commemorative book titled “30 Years of KEHATI” to document its milestones, successes, and ongoing initiatives. This publication reflects on the challenges and achievements of the past while providing insight into the foundation’s vision for the future. It serves as both a tribute to the pioneers who established KEHATI and a roadmap for the next generation of environmental leaders dedicated to continuing their legacy.
Indra Gunawan, one of the foundation’s emerging leaders, represents the younger generation committed to carrying forward KEHATI’s mission. His leadership and dedication symbolize the transition towards new stewardship, ensuring that the foundation’s work will endure for decades to come. Under his guidance, KEHATI continues to focus on innovative solutions to modern environmental challenges, such as climate change, deforestation, and marine conservation.
KEHATI’s 30-year journey underscores the vital importance of long-term commitment to biodiversity preservation. In an era marked by rapid urbanization and industrial growth, the foundation remains a key advocate for sustainable environmental practices, policy reform, and public engagement. By fostering collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society, KEHATI amplifies its impact, reinforcing the notion that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.
As KEHATI embarks on its next chapter, the foundation’s enduring mission serves as a reminder of the essential role biodiversity plays in shaping Indonesia’s future. Through continued education, conservation efforts, and community involvement, KEHATI remains steadfast in its vision of a harmonious relationship between humans and nature, ensuring that Indonesia’s natural treasures are preserved for generations to come.
Source: Suryo Pratomo, Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore
