Trees4Trees has taken a new step in broadening its reforestation message by partnering with Tantri Syalindri, lead vocalist of the renowned Indonesian rock band Kotak, and her husband Arda Hatna Danarda, an Indonesian pop singer as green ambassadors. This collaboration aligns with the shared mission of Trees4Trees and Tantri and Arda to promote environmental preservation efforts in Indonesia. 

Through this collaboration, the spirit of protecting the environment and Indonesia’s natural resources is expected to reach a wider audience, particularly the younger generation.  

Creating Environmental Protection Songs and Raising Awareness Among Fans 

As musicians, they have incorporated environmental messages into their songs and performances. In 2015, Tantri and her band, Kotak, released a song titled “Jagalah Bumi” (Protect the Earth) as the soundtrack for a children’s series. Two years later, she collaborated with her bandmate, Chua, the bassist, to create another environmental song in a strong rock style, titled “Hijaukan Bumi” (Green the Earth). 

Due to the environmental messages conveyed in their songs, they gained opportunities to be involved in several environmental preservation projects. One involvement was in a tree-planting program to green the roadsides of tollways, initiated by one of Indonesia’s state-owned companies.  

Arda, on the other hand, spreads awareness about environmental preservation in his own way. “As musicians, we spread environmental messages through our work. The simplest way I contribute is by actively reminding the audience not to litter and leave garbage at the concert venue,” Arda explained. 

Applying Green Action on Their Wedding and Daily Life  

Planting trees has always been part of Arda’s life. His mother, who comes from a mountainous region, was familiar with planting and passed this habit to her children. “I’ve been planting trees since I was a kid because my mom taught me how. It became a regular part of our lives,” said Arda. When he married Tantri ten years ago, the couple decided to give tree seedlings to their guests as wedding souvenirs, reflecting their care for the environment and nature. 

“Now, ten years later, some of our friends still send us pictures of how tall the trees have grown. It’s incredible to see the growth of something we gave them as a small seedling, and now they are thriving. I’m also grateful that from the little seedlings we gave, then spreading to our friends and acquittance’s home, then creating great impacts by providing the oxygen and shade,” Tantri shared. 

Now, their green habits have been introduced to their children. They not only plant various types of trees and plants around their home, but also teach their kids how to do the same. “I believe it’s human nature to enjoy greenery and feel at ease surrounded by plants and trees, connecting with nature. A green environment brings tranquility, and many ideas are born from that kind of space,” said Arda. 

Voice Out: Planting Trees for Hopes  

In partnership with Trees4Trees, they committed to promoting the message and spirit of reforestation. Over the next three years, they will collaborate with Trees4Trees on digital campaigns to inspire more people to protect their environment, helping the Earth thrive. Arda introduced a symbolic gesture that will align with this partnership campaign—a half-closed hand, reminiscent of a prayer—representing the idea that planting trees is also planting hope for a better future through a healthier planet.  

This partnership aims to make a lasting impact by raising awareness and encouraging sustainable practices toward Indonesia’s audience. “We have experienced climate change effects, like extreme heat or heavy rain that leads to flooding. I think witnessing these conditions should prompt us to evaluate ourselves. What have we done to preserve and care for our Earth?” said Tantri. 

She also emphasizes that simple actions, like planting trees around our homes, can make a difference. “Planting trees is one of the simplest ways to show our care for the Earth. We can start with our surroundings. But if you don’t have space, you can plant with Trees4Trees. There are plenty of areas out there where we can contribute to reforestation. So, I invite you to help green the Earth for a better life,” Tantri encouraged. 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Photos: Yulianisa Dessenita