Enjoying North Kalimantan's Tourist Attractions through a Book
Enjoying North Kalimantan's Tourist Attractions through a Book. Doc. BorneoTravel.com
Book Title: Pariwisata Kalimantan Utara (North Kalimantan Tourism)
Author: Muh. Ramli, et al.
Category: Tourism
Publisher: Dayak Literacy Institute
Published: 2024
ISBN: 978-623-5890-73-9
Pages: 343
Language: Indonesian
Dimensions: 15x23 cm
Price: Rp. 75,000
🌍 TANJUNG SELOR | BORNEOTRAVEL : As the youngest province on the island of Borneo, North Kalimantan holds a hidden charm. While some see its forests merely as commodities or, worse, as foreboding and untamed wilderness, these very forests are the heart of North Kalimantan’s tourism appeal.
The old narrative of deforestation—stripping the land bare for plantations or extracting its natural resources to depletion—is a legacy of the past, leaving behind a dark mark for future generations. But here, in North Kalimantan, the forest is not just a resource; it is a breathtaking spectacle, a mirror reflecting the province’s extraordinary beauty. This region is a treasure trove of natural wonders, waiting to be explored.
North Kalimantan has developed various forest-based tourism experiences, including trekking and hiking through pristine jungle trails, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Kayan Mentarang National Park and Mount Rian in Tana Tidung Regency. Beyond the trails, the province boasts untouched tropical forests, hidden waterfalls, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna, earning its reputation as one of Borneo’s best-kept secrets. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find unparalleled opportunities to observe rare and endemic species unique to this region. In Kayan Mentarang alone, visitors can encounter a variety of exotic birds, including the majestic hornbill. And of course, there’s the fascinating story of the proboscis monkey in Tarakan.
In essence, North Kalimantan, with its largely untouched forests, offers an unparalleled camping experience. Spending the night deep in the heart of a truly wild (non-artificial) forest, equipped only with a tent or bivouac, provides a thrilling encounter with nature—an experience where the symphony of the jungle and the mystery of the night come alive. The province’s rivers, rapids, and waterfalls further enrich its natural appeal, making them prime destinations for eco-tourism. However, these wonders must be shared and narrated to the world, ensuring they are not forever hidden from the public eye.
Recognizing this, the North Kalimantan Tourism Office took a bold step by gathering around 50 writers from across the province—individuals passionate about showcasing the beauty of their homeland. This literary initiative was nothing short of remarkable. These skilled writers underwent further training to refine their ability to observe, describe, and translate their experiences into compelling narratives. Guided by accomplished mentors—Pepih Nugraha (writer and former journalist), Masri Sareb Putra (author), Dodi Mawardi (writer and speaker), Hilmi Faiq (active journalist), and Arbain Rambey (photographer)—they embarked on a journey to tell North Kalimantan’s story through words.
The result of this writing and literacy workshop, held in Tanjung Selor, is the book North Kalimantan Tourism—a collective masterpiece that transforms the province’s hidden treasures into a tangible literary wealth. As readers delve into its pages, they are transported into the lush, unspoiled landscapes of North Kalimantan: from its pristine coastline and vast rainforests to its meandering rivers, borderland uniqueness such as Sebatik Island, the serene Tanah Kuning Beach, and the province’s rich cultural heritage.
Beyond nature, the people and traditions of North Kalimantan are attractions in their own right. Visitors can witness vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Irau Tengkayu, a sacred Tidung ceremony, and the Irau Festival in Malinau Regency. Another cultural highlight, "Bebidai, Your Past Beauty," narrates an ancient ritual in Bulungan Regency, providing a glimpse into the province’s deep-rooted traditions. Meanwhile, border tourism offers a unique perspective, as Sebatik Island sits directly adjacent to Malaysia. Cross-border travel between Sebatik and Nunukan to Malaysia is a tourism experience with immense potential. Additionally, the bustling border markets, where Indonesian and Malaysian traders interact, present a fascinating spectacle for travelers.
This book is a culmination of the writers’ explorations, unveiling destinations previously unknown to many. With narratives that transport readers to breathtaking locations, the book opens with Alam Upun Taka, an invitation to explore North Kalimantan’s untouched forests. One of its most surprising revelations is the presence of the proboscis monkey—Borneo’s iconic long-nosed primate—in Tarakan City. Equally mesmerizing is the depiction of Mount Rian’s grandeur in Tana Tidung Regency.
What sets this book apart is its storytelling approach. Nearly every writer narrates their experiences in a vivid, engaging manner, making readers feel as if they are embarking on the adventure themselves. The prose flows effortlessly, carrying the reader along as if they were walking through the jungle, feeling the breeze, and listening to the murmurs of the wild. This immersive storytelling ensures that the book is not just informative but also a captivating read—one that compels readers to turn every page until the very last word.
-- Rangkaya Bada
