Jimmy Pontoh

In 2013, for the first time, AEON retail workers' union Japan, coordinated by JAFS came to North Sulawesi to do a planting tree project in Batu Angus, Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Collaborated with BKSDA and BPK Sulut. For two days, starting from 6th - 7th July, we will plant 3,500 trees in Batu Angus, a part of the conservation area in Tangkoko , Bitung. After two days of the planting trees program, we make a short trek to Mt. Batu Angus in the afternoon. It was neither difficult nor easy, but our curiosity to see with our own eyes the very unique endemic animals and also known as the smallest primate “Tarsius Spectrum” made us keep walking along the path in the high grassland. It takes only about 30 minutes to walk from the Forest Ranger’s office, but we sometimes had to rest for a few minutes, drink, and enjoy the beautiful panorama of Mt. Batu Angus, the grassland, and of course, Lembeh Island in the distance. Some people may have a bit problem on this trip as they might ...

Members of the AEON Retail Workers Union Japan and Japan Asian Friendship Society (JAFS) visited SD GMIM 4 Tomohon, one of the largest elementary schools in Tomohon City, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.  Their visit was part of a meaningful effort to support environmental education and promote green awareness among children. The event brought together representatives from Japanese NGOs (JAFS), the headmaster, teachers, and students. School Principal Fientje Mawikere, S.Pd.., warmly welcomed the guests, emphasizing the school's role within the GMIM Maranatha Paslaten congregation and its significance in the local education system, with over 600 students enrolled. This heartwarming encounter took place on 26th June 2014, coinciding with the school's exam results day. Although most students were already on holiday, the school remained vibrant with the excitement of the occasion.  After the school welcome, the group proceeded to the slopes of Mount Mahawu for a tree planting activity a...