Forestry is often associated with field work, conservation, and technical management. But for younger generations, engaging with forests can also begin through ideas, creativity, communication, entrepreneurship, and everyday interests.
This was the idea behind BARENG KIFC! — Korea-Indonesia Youth Forestry & Cultural Exchange Workshop, held at the KIFC Office in Jakarta on 1 October 2026. The workshop brought together young participants to learn about Korea–Indonesia forestry cooperation and explore how forestry could connect with areas that feel closer to their daily lives, such as food, digital content, lifestyle, outdoor activities, and culture.
Rather than presenting forestry only as a technical subject, the workshop encouraged participants to combine a forestry-related theme with another topic of their choice. Ideas could connect forests with culinary products, ecotourism, sustainable lifestyles, creative media, or other forms of public engagement. Each group then developed its concept into a simple project or business proposal and presented it to the other participants
Participants and the KIFC team exchange perspectives during BARENG KIFC!, creating space for discussion on forestry cooperation and youth engagement. | Photo: © 01 October 2026 KIFC
The approach reflects a broader point: young people do not need to work directly in forestry to contribute to forest awareness and sustainability. A content creator can communicate environmental issues to a wider audience. A student interested in business can explore sustainable forest products. Someone interested in tourism can help develop ideas around responsible ecotourism, while technology and design can support education, monitoring, and public engagement.
The workshop materials also introduced participants to examples of Korea–Indonesia forestry cooperation, including forest restoration, peatland restoration, forest and land fire management, eco-education, and sustainable forest management.
Activities such as BARENG KIFC! show that introducing forestry to young people can go beyond lectures. Giving participants space to discuss, experiment with ideas, and connect forests with their own interests can offer them a small but meaningful slice of experience in forestry, while opening new ways for them to participate.
