The Disappearing Forest of Jayagiri

The trees of Jayagiri forest, at the foot of Mt Tangkuban Perahu, continue to be cut down. With the Forestry Minister’s approval, a developer will turn it into a recreation area. Yet, any development in this North Bandung conservation site requires the prior recommendation of the West Java Governor.

September 22, 2009

TWO decades ago, Jayagiri was a small haven at the foot of Mount Tangkuban Perahu, a cool sanctuary north of Bandung, with tall pines reaching to the sky. It was a favorite spot for nature lovers. Cool mountain air and the sound of silence greeted us as we enter the forest, over footpaths rarely touched by the sun, for the dense foliage and heavy mist.

Once, one did not need to walk too far to be aware of the natural wealth of Jayagiri forest. A

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