Hidden in the dense tropical rainforest of Kalimantan, along the trail leading to the summit of Mount Bukit Raya—Indonesia’s highest peak in Kalimantan—researchers stumbled upon a discovery that has captivated the botanical world: two previously unknown species of Begonia.
This discovery is more than just another addition to a plant catalog. It is living proof that Kalimantan’s forests, though long explored, still hold secrets in their silence. Named Begonia bukitrayaensis and Begonia kalimantana, these plants enrich Indonesia’s biodiversity while underscoring the importance of preserving conservation areas such as Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park.
Journey Through the Silent Forest
The expedition, conducted in June 2024 and facilitated by the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park Authority, was led by Agusti Randi from the Nusantara Climate Initiative, alongside scientists from various institutions. Their route took them across slippery trails, up granite boulders, and along clear mountain streams.
In these rarely trodden paths, the team encountered around 15 species of Begonia—two of which had never been described before.
“Begonias in Kalimantan have long been overlooked due to limited exploration, even though their diversity potential is enormous,” said Agusti Randi in the introduction of his research, published in the journal Phytotaxa on June 6, 2025.
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The Spiny Beauty & The Shy Shimmer
Begonia bukitrayaensis grows creeping over mossy granite rocks, with glossy green leaves adorned with red spines resembling cat’s claws—a striking contrast in the lush forest. Found only at altitudes between 700 and 1,650 meters, far from tourist trails, it thrives abundantly in undisturbed forests. For this reason, the IUCN classifies it as “Least Concern.”
Its counterpart, Begonia kalimantana, stands more upright and elegant. Its elongated, deep olive-green leaves are streaked with a shimmering white midline—almost like a living painting. This species grows in lowland forests up to 700 meters, often hidden behind large protective stipules, clinging discreetly to old tree trunks where it is barely noticed.
Conservation and Science Hand in Hand
This finding raises the recorded number of Begonia species in Kalimantan to 32—a significant leap from only five documented in 2014. Yet challenges remain. Brunei, which occupies just 1% of Borneo’s area, had already recorded over 16 species in the same period, highlighting Kalimantan’s need for more intensive botanical exploration.
Voices from the Forest
The expedition also involved the Indigenous community of Rantau Malam village, who provided logistical support and invaluable local knowledge. This collaboration between scientists and local people stands as a model for inclusive conservation practices.
Although written in scientific language for an international journal, the story of these two Begonias is, at heart, a love story between humans and nature—about how, behind the silence of Kalimantan’s forests, there is still life waiting to be discovered, understood, and cherished. (Wage Erlangga)
