When people think of Bali, they often picture a world-famous tourist destination with stunning beaches, majestic mountains and hills, and a rich cultural heritage showcased through traditional dances, art performances, and iconic architectures. And while that’s all true, Bali is much more than just a tourist destination.  

This island is home to vibrant marine and coastal ecosystems, protected forests, thriving agriculture, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in local wisdom. It includes Subak, a traditional irrigation system which reflects the deep connection between nature, community, and tradition. 

However, Bali now faces growing environmental threats, including population growth and deforestation caused by land conversion and excessive land use. These threats not only lead to environmental degradation but also put local livelihoods and traditional practices like Subak at risk, including in the western part of the island, specifically in Melaya District of Jembrana Regency. 

Agricultural Practice and Subak Irrigation System in Melaya 

Unlike other regions of Bali, where tourism dominated, Melaya communities depend primarily on agriculture. Rice, coconut, and cacao are the district’s key agricultural products.  

“Cacao production, in particular, has made one of villages in Melaya District, Ekasari Village, renowned as the largest and best cacao producer in Bali,” said Rusmanto Manulang, the Trees4Trees Field Coordinator for Bali. 

Melaya, where also a home to West Bali National Park and traversed by Sangiang Gede river, practices organic farming and as much of Bali, the agriculture is deeply intertwined with Subak, a traditional irrigation system recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012. The district has 19 Subak sites, spanning over villages, sustaining this centuries-old irrigation system. 

Believed to date back to 9th century, the Subak system follows sustainable and rotational methods, where local farmers work in organized groups, taking turns irrigating rice fields while others grow alternative crops. Water is distributed through irrigation water tunnels network, ensuring equitable access and making water availability crucial.  

“In Melaya, local farmers uphold this practice, working together hand in hand, not only to secure their livelihoods, but also preserve the cultural traditions,” Rusmanto added. 

Read also: How Do Trees Conserve Water?

Land Degradation in Melaya and the Role of Forest in Water Conservation 

Among Bali’s regencies, Jembrana has the largest forest area, with 49% – approximately 41,307-hectare of its land, covered in forest, according to Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MOEF) in 2021. Most of these are protected forests, serving as habitats for diverse wildlife and sustaining water resources in the region.  

The regency is also traversed by 40 rivers, some flowing into Melaya district, playing a vital role in supporting the Subak irrigation system. This includes the Sangiang Gede river (Tukad Sangiang Gede in Balinese), the longest river in Jembrana, stretching 25,000 meters.  

Despite the crucial link between intact forest and water availability, the Sangiang Gede watershed in Melaya district has experienced increasing environmental degradation in recent years, putting water sources at risk. Rapid population growth has led to land conversion for residential and agricultural expansion, resulting in deforestation, erosion that increases river sedimentation, flooding, and water shortages. These challenges threaten both local ecosystems and traditional farming practices.

“Some areas in Melaya Village experience flooding, especially after heavy rain. Meanwhile, in the neighboring Ekasari Village, residents struggle with water shortages during the dry season,” said Rusmanto.

Based on Trees4Trees’ spatial analysis, currently, over 29% of the land in Melaya district, especially in the Sangiang Gede river, has been affected by degradation. It highlights the urgent need for conservation and sustainable land management efforts.  

Trees4Trees Tree Planting: Restoring Nature, Strengthening Communities 

To help local communities address environmental challenges, protect livelihoods, and preserve Bali’s rich agricultural heritage, Trees4Trees is expanding its reforestation efforts on the island. Together with its supporters, Trees4Trees has recently planted over 17,000 trees across two villages in Melaya District: Tuwed and Ekasari. 

Read also: Expanding Green: Trees4Trees Planting Season 2024-2025

Focusing on cacao and albizia trees, the initiative spans approximately 25 hectares.  It aims to support local farmers and protect forests bordering the villages, which are vital in sustaining the river supplies water to the Subak. With a long-term vision of restoring ecological balance, strengthening local economies, and safeguarding cultural traditions in Bali, Trees4Trees is committed to expanding this initiative in the years ahead.  

You can also participate in this reforestation program! Make a lasting impact on the environment, agriculture, and local communities in Bali by planting trees together with us.  

Contact us at info@trees4trees.org to learn more about how to get involved in the Bali Reforestation! 

Writer: V. Arnila Wulandani. Photos: Muhammad Ely Nezar & Rusmanto Manulang