Sungai Wain: A Living Natural Heritage in the Heart of the Oil City
Amidst the industrial pulse and rapid development of Balikpapan, famously known as the “Oil City” for its long history of petroleum exploration in East Kalimantan,lies a rare sanctuary of green life that continues to breathe for the city. This place is the Sungai Wain Protection Forest (HLSW), the last stronghold of biodiversity that thrives amidst the hum of engines and human activity.
Today, two travelers from Rome, Maria Lia and Dennys Napolitano, had the opportunity to explore this remarkable forest. They were accompanied by Ranger Ramdhan, an experienced guide who dedicates his days to protecting and preserving the forest.
With great enthusiasm, Maria and Dennys embarked on a two-hour short trek through the tropical rainforest. Though brief, the journey revealed the true essence of Borneo’s wilderness, the crisp air, sunlight filtering through towering trees, and the melodic chorus of forest birds created a serene and unforgettable atmosphere.
Encounter with the Pitcher Plant
Along the trail, Ranger Ramdhan introduced them to one of the forest’s most iconic plants the pitcher plant, known scientifically as Nepenthes spp. This carnivorous plant is a wonder of nature. Its leaves form a pitcher-shaped trap filled with digestive liquid used to lure and consume insects. The pitchers come in beautiful shades of green, red, or even a mix of both a natural charm that fascinates anyone who sees them.
Maria was amazed to learn how the plant survives. “This is incredible! I never knew there were plants that could actually eat insects,” she exclaimed in awe.
The Alluring “Garlic Tree”
Not far from the pitcher plant, Ranger Ramdhan pointed out another remarkable species — the “garlic tree”, or Scorodocarpus borneensis. This tree is known for its distinct garlic-like aroma that appears when its bark or leaves are scratched. The sharp scent comes from natural chemical compounds that protect the tree from insects and fungi.
In the forest ecosystem, Scorodocarpus borneensis plays an essential role. Its fruits serve as food for wildlife, while its wood — once prized for its durability — was traditionally used by local communities. However, today the tree has become increasingly rare due to logging. For Maria and Dennys, discovering a tree with such a unique fragrance added another layer of wonder to their rainforest adventure.
The Role of Sungai Wain
Covering more than 10,000 hectares, the Sungai Wain Protection Forest lies just 30 to 45 minutes from Balikpapan’s city center. It serves as the main water source for the city and provides a safe haven for endangered species such as the Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), sun bear (Helarctos malayanus), and proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus).
Beyond its ecological significance, the forest also functions as a center for research, conservation, and wildlife rehabilitation, while offering meaningful ecotourism experiences for visitors eager to explore Borneo’s tropical treasures.
Getting to Sungai Wain
Reaching Sungai Wain is convenient. From downtown Balikpapan, visitors can drive for about half an hour to reach the main gate. The roads are paved, and once inside, several trekking routes are available, each designed with varying difficulty levels to suit different abilities.
A Lasting Impression
In just two hours, Maria Lia and Dennys Napolitano experienced a journey they would never forget. They not only witnessed unique flora like the pitcher plant and the garlic tree but also gained valuable insight from Ranger Ramdhan about the fragile balance of nature.