Ramin (Gonystylus bancanus), a tree species native to the islands of Kalimantan and Sumatra, is categorized as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. Despite its status on the brink of extinction, ramin continues to face severe threats from overexploitation driven by persistent market demand.
Its long-term survival is further challenged by its slow natural regeneration rate, which struggles to keep pace with large-scale land clearing, illegal logging activities, and the expansion of commodities such as oil palm plantations and mining operations that continue to reduce the remaining forest habitat. Yet ecologically, ramin provides significant benefits when maintained in its natural environment. Its characteristic aerial roots help regulate water levels and reduce fire risk in peatland ecosystems.
In response to the growing threats facing the species, the Independent Forest Monitoring Fund (IFM Fund), in collaboration with the Kaharingan Institute, has released a new report entitled “Delaying Extinction: Advocating for the Protection of Gonystylus bancanus as a Protected Species in Indonesia.”
The report combines Ecological Niche Modelling (ENM) analysis with intensive field verification conducted across Central Kalimantan Province. It presents a current snapshot of the condition of ramin populations in the field, highlighting the urgent need for stronger conservation measures.
The report also seeks to provide valuable input for policymakers and regulatory authorities, particularly the Ministry of Forestry, regarding the importance of strengthening legal protection for ramin. This recommendation is especially critical considering that the majority of the species’ potential habitat occurs outside formally designated conservation areas.
Read the full report here: Delaying Extinction: Advancing the Protection of Gonystylus bancanus as a Protected Species in Indonesia