Video Contest – April 2021

Description: Alor is a beautiful island with a unique marine ecosystem where coral reef, mangrove and sea grass met...the perfect home for a very unusual inhabitant! Our journey led us to meet "Pak Oneh", who became a fierce protector of the environment. With the local community, he is deeply involved in many conservation projects. And one of his first mission is to protect Mawar, the local dugong, real mascot of Alor, who even has his own festival! Mawar is a male of almost 3 m and 300kg, who displayed a very "passionate" behavior for Pak Oneh's boat. He always comes freely and seems to live a peaceful life, but probably a bit lonely. This encounter shows us, than a respectful relationship between nature and local communities can be established and be beneficial for both party. In general in Alor we experienced a feeling of mutual respect that we found deeply touching.