If I have to summarize my 9 month experience in LFP in one word, it has to be “remarkable”. Never having been in West Java for more than one week, I was astonished by how different Cipaganti was compared to all the city I have lived before. Cipaganti as a village offers a mesmerizing view, clear and fresh air, and also a cold weather which I prefer more.

Coming from a big city to this little yet beautiful village, I was really excited and also nervous to experience what it feels like to live there.
The village may be beautiful, but how about the people? Fear not, unlike its chilly temperature, people there are very warm and welcoming–my fear vanished instantly as I started to enjoy living there.

Doing conservation work in LFP was also an eye-opening experience for me. I was interested in primate behavior since the beginning, but I’m still contemplating whether I want to dedicate my life to conservation or not, so volunteering here gave me a new perspective in the matter. It’s interesting how conservation work can involve not only conservationist, but also local people in the village and the kids there. I used to think that it is not possible to explain the idea of conservation to local people–turns out I was wrong. The way LFP spreads the message that slow loris is a “forest protector” is really powerful. It proves that conservation is more than protecting an endangered animal, it’s also a duty to protect the nature and human.

And for any fellow introverts out there, please do not feel discouraged to volunteer here! Like I said, everyone in LFP is welcoming–even Miskin, our lovely cat, even though sometimes she can be a bit grumpy. Not only my knowledge that has expanded ever since I volunteer here, but also my confidence and my english skill, so 10/10 will recommend LFP to everyone. Thank you LFP for all the amazing experience!