Commemorating Earth Day 2026, InJourney Destination Management Plants 100 Gayam Trees in Borobudur to Strengthen Water Conservation and Watershed Preservation

 InJourney Destination Management together with PT Taman Wisata Borobudur, at Nawung Studio and the Karangrejo Village community, Borobudur, held an InJourney activity. Green through the action of planting Gayam trees on the banks of the Sileng River, Karangrejo Village, Borobudur, Magelang, Wednesday (22/4). The activity commemorated Earth Day (Earth Day) 2026 is part of a joint commitment to maintaining environmental sustainability, strengthening water conservation, and encouraging sustainable tourism practices in the Borobudur area.

Director of Operations of PT TWB Supriadi Jufri, founder Nawung Atik Studio, Karangrejo Village Head Hely Rofikun, and local residents simultaneously planted 100 Gayam tree seedlings along the banks of the Sileng River. This is expected to support the recovery process of the Sileng River watershed (DAS) from erosion while also increasing soil absorption and water storage, which is beneficial during the dry season. 

PT TWB Operations Director Supriadi Jufri stated that environmental preservation is an integral part of Borobudur Temple management. He stated that the Borobudur area must not only be protected for its historical and cultural values, but also for the natural balance that underpins its sustainability.

“Through the InJourney program Green"We want to ensure that destination development is carried out responsibly and has a real impact on the environment. Planting Gayam trees along the banks of the Sileng River is a concrete effort to preserve water resources, reduce the risk of erosion, and leave a better environment for future generations," he said.

The Gayam tree, meaning "shade" or "peace," provides comfortable shade and coolness to its surroundings. The Gayam tree was also chosen for its unique biological characteristics, with its deep-seated root system acting as a natural sponge, slowly absorbing and storing water, thus maintaining stable groundwater availability.

He added that water conservation is a crucial issue that requires collective attention in the Borobudur area. Water availability is a key foundation for community life and the sustainability of the tourism sector.

"Gayam is a plant closely associated with the community. If it grows well, its benefits can be felt by future generations. This reforestation effort is very beneficial for preserving riverbanks, improving environmental quality, and raising public awareness of environmental sustainability," he explained.

The event began with a procession of dancers to the banks of the Sileng River, joined by local residents and a number of invited guests. The procession continued with a performance of the Beksan Pinuwunan dance, a form of supplication, prayer, and human longing for the grace of God Almighty.

After that, the procession continued with the singing of the song Kidung Pangaksuma which generally means a sacred song or song of praise containing apologies, forgiveness and surrender to God Almighty.

Trees that have been planted then receive regular routine maintenance by the staff. ili-ili from Studio Nawung to ensure optimal growth. The Gayam trees are fertilized using compost produced locally from organic waste generated in the Prambanan Temple area, as part of a commitment to sustainable environmental management.

"This step demonstrates our commitment to sustainable resource management at the destination. We hope this effort will increase the resource's utility while preserving the environment," explained Supriadi.

Studio Nawung founder Atik said the Gayam tree's historical significance is closely linked to the Borobudur area. She believes the Gayam tree is more than just a plant, but a symbol of shade, tranquility, and the sustainability of Javanese life.

"Gayam trees grow abundantly in this area, even leaving a mark on a number of place names, such as Kali Gayam and Dusun Gayam in Giripurno Village, Borobudur. The oldest Gayam tree can still be found in Dusun Giri Tengah, Kamal Village, Borobudur. Planting Gayam trees in this area is expected to revitalize the local community's identity and foster ecological awareness in the area," he explained.

Karangrejo Village Head Hely Rofikun welcomed the multi-stakeholder collaboration and expressed new hope for the sustainability of the village environment. He expressed his appreciation for the concern shown by various parties for the village environment and the river area, which is a source of livelihood for the residents.

"Hopefully, this step will be an ecosystem restoration effort rooted in local wisdom and reconnect the chain of Borobudur's fading natural identity. We hope this activity can continue to ensure the sustainability of water resources for future generations," he explained.

InJourney Destination Management confirms its commitment through the InJourney program Green to continue presenting sustainability initiatives that have a real impact on the environment and society. The planting of Gayam trees at Borobudur is expected to be the beginning of a broader movement to protect water sources, restore ecosystems, and strengthen Borobudur's position as a sustainable cultural tourism destination.