Kembang Island

Freshwater Mangrove Ecosystem and Unique Biodiversity

The main characteristic of Kembang Island is its freshwater mangrove forest ecosystem or swamp forest, dominated by typical wetland vegetation. Trees such as Rambai (Sonneratia caseolaris), Nipah (Nypa fruticans), and various types of river mangroves form the main structure of this island. Aerial roots emerging from the muddy ground create an exotic landscape, especially when the river water is receding.

The main biodiversity attraction on Kembang Island is the population of Grey Long-tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis) and Proboscis Monkeys (Nasalis larvatus). The grey long-tailed macaques here are known to be very tame yet clever, often greeting visitors as soon as the boat docks at the pier. Meanwhile, the Proboscis Monkey, the mascot of South Kalimantan with its distinctive long nose, tends to be shyer and can usually be seen at the tops of Rambai trees in the morning or afternoon. The presence of Proboscis Monkeys on this island is an important indicator that the swamp forest ecosystem on Kembang Island is still well-preserved.

Tourist Experience and Outdoor Activities

Visiting Kembang Island provides a sense of adventure that begins even before your feet touch the island. Here are some of the main activities visitors can enjoy:

1. Cruising the Barito River by Kelotok: The journey to the island is by a traditional Kalimantan boat called a "Kelotok". During the trip, visitors can witness the activities of river communities, rows of wood sawmills, and the passage of giant coal barges.

2. Interaction with Primates: Visitors are allowed to feed the monkeys with nuts or bananas, which are widely sold by local vendors. However, visitors are advised to remain vigilant and secure their belongings as these monkeys are very agile.

3. Nature and Wildlife Photography: For photography enthusiasts, Kembang Island is a paradise for capturing candid wildlife moments. The corners of wooden piers jutting into the river with a backdrop of green forest provide aesthetic photo compositions.

4. Cultural and Religious Tourism: In the interior of the island, there is a sacred altar or shrine, complete with a white monkey statue (Hanoman). This place is often visited by pilgrims who bring offerings as a form of respect for the ancestors and guardians of the island according to local beliefs.

Best Time to Visit

Kembang Island can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the dry season between May and September. During this period, rainfall is lower, so the trekking paths within the island, which are wooden bridges, are not too slippery.

On a daily basis, the best times to arrive at the island are in the morning (08:00 - 10:00) or in the afternoon (16:00 - 17:30). During these hours, the air temperature is not too scorching, and most importantly, Proboscis Monkeys usually come out of their hiding places to forage along the riverbanks, giving visitors a chance to see them up close.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a Nature Tourism Park managed under the supervision of the South Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA), Kembang Island has legal protection status. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting the habitat of Proboscis Monkeys, which is increasingly threatened by land-use changes outside the area.

Visitors are strongly urged not to throw plastic waste into the river or into the island's forest. Plastic waste is a serious threat to the digestive systems of primates if they accidentally ingest it. In addition, there is an unwritten rule not to disturb the tranquility of the animals with loud music or other provocative actions to maintain the natural behavior of these animals.

Accessibility and Facilities

Access to Kembang Island is quite easy. The main entrance is usually through the pier under the Barito Bridge or through the port in the Siring Pierre Tendean area, Banjarmasin. The journey by Kelotok takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on the departure point.

Facilities available on Kembang Island are continuously being improved. Currently, there are:

• A representative wooden pier.
• Wooden boardwalks made of Ulin wood that circle parts of the forest area, so visitors don't have to walk through muddy swamp land.
• Small stalls selling snacks, drinks, and bait for monkeys (nuts and bananas).
• Rangers who are ready to assist and provide information regarding safety when interacting with wildlife.

Kembang Island is not just a tourist attraction, but a lung for the Barito Kuala region and a valuable natural laboratory. By visiting this island, tourists indirectly contribute to the local economy and the conservation efforts of Kalimantan's endemic primates. The experience of breaking through the morning mist on the Barito River and being greeted by the noisy calls of monkeys will be an unforgettable memory for anyone who loves the wild.