Mount Maras National Park: A Hidden Green Oasis on Bangka Island

Beyond the well-known image of tin mining, Bangka Island harbors a different narrative within the verdant expanse of Mount Maras National Park. Standing at approximately 705 meters, it is the highest point in the Bangka Belitung Islands, revealing a contrasting side of Bangka. As one approaches the foot of the mountain, the mining landscape gradually gives way to trees, hills, and cooler air. Designated as a National Park by Decree No.576/Menlhk/Setjen/PLA.2/7/2016 on July 27, 2016, the area spans roughly 16,806.91 hectares, crossing the regions of Bangka Regency and West Bangka Regency. It encompasses three distinct natural faces: lowland primary forest, hilly terrain, and mangrove areas. This blend is what makes it worthy of being called an "oasis" on Bangka Island. For nature enthusiasts, the national park offers much to observe. At least 53 species of trees grow within its boundaries, with the Pelawan tree (genus Tristaniopsis) being particularly characteristic and well-known to the local community. If fortunate, visitors might encounter various fauna during their exploration, including mouse deer, civets, junglefowl, long-tailed macaques, wild boars, langurs, monitor lizards, and several types of snakes. The area is also home to pangolins and the mentilin, a small primate with large eyes active at night. However, the allure of Mount Maras extends beyond its scenery and biodiversity. The region also holds historical traces of older Malay communities. For the Mapur people (or Orang Lom), Jerieng tribe, and Maras tribe, the mountain is considered a sacred territory that must be respected. Local communities believe that...