In the heart of Bali, where lush rice paddies and vibrant culture converge, Tim Fijal has embarked on a mission to transform how people experience tourism and connect with nature. As the founder of Astungkara Way, a unique social enterprise, Tim Fijal is redefining travel and making significant strides in supporting Balinese communities and promoting regenerative farming. Fijal’s journey from his work at Green School Bali to the inception of Astungkara Way is a testament to his passion for sustainability and dedication to bridging the gap between international and local communities.
The Green School Bali Experience
Tim Fijal’s story begins with his tenure as the program director at Green School Bali, an international school nestled within Bali’s lush landscapes. His primary objective was to foster meaningful interactions between the international and local communities, thereby integrating the Green School with the Balinese way of life.
During his time at Green School, Fijal welcomed over 500 local children into the school, fostering an environment of learning and self-exploration. However, he soon realized that while locals were eager to understand international cultures, expatriates needed more interest in delving into Balinese culture and sustainability practices. Fijal firmly believed that international communities should pay more attention to the local way of life, which was often more sustainable than the lifestyles of expatriates.
A Passion for Farming and Regeneration
Fijal’s fascination with farming and sustainability led him to dive deeper into agriculture. He formed a close bond with the head of Subak village, where the headquarters of Astungkara Way is now located. Together, they set out to address two pressing issues: soil degradation due to chemical-intensive farming practices and the declining interest among young people in pursuing farming as a livelihood.
Fijal’s vision was clear – to make farming attractive and “sexy” again. As the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic and many people lost their office jobs, he saw an opportunity to reconnect people with the land. This vision gave birth to the Astungkara Way, whose slogan, “Kapan Lagi Kalau Bukan Sekarang” (When if not now?), urged people to explore the beauty of Bali’s rice paddies and participate in the rice cycle. The goal was to draw them closer to the source of their food and, in doing so, raise awareness about the importance of caring for the environment together.
Connecting People with Their Food Source
At its core, Astungkara Way aims to reconnect people with their food source and emphasize the vital role of sustainable farming in preserving the environment. Fijal pointed out that many people today are oblivious to the origins of their daily intake, as they simply buy groceries from nearby supermarkets.
The Astungkara Way trail experiences offer a unique opportunity for travellers to immerse themselves in Balinese culture and sustainable practices. Fijal explained that there is a growing trend in tourism where people seek authentic experiences, cultural connections, and the chance to impact the places they visit positively. By walking the Astungkara Way trail, pilgrims can reduce their carbon footprint while supporting local communities in remote areas, often overlooked by traditional tourism.
Empowering Local Communities through Regenerative Farming
Astungkara Way is not merely about creating transformative travel experiences; it’s also dedicated to regenerative farming and empowering local communities. Fijal and his team have initiated a regenerative farming class that generates revenue for local communities and provides a market for farmers to sell their chemical-free rice at higher prices. This initiative not only promotes sustainable farming practices but also helps secure financial stability for the farmers.
However, Fijal acknowledges that transitioning farmers from chemical-intensive agriculture is a significant challenge. Many farmers are elderly and resistant to change, having practised traditional methods for decades. Astungkara Way approaches this challenge carefully, respecting local expertise and avoiding any imposition of foreign ideas.
The Path Forward
Despite its challenges, Astungkara Way remains committed to promoting regenerative farming and sustainable tourism. Fijal believes that change is possible in the face of widespread chemical use in Indonesia. He envisions Astungkara Way as a catalyst for Bali’s shift from local sustainability to global leadership in regenerative farming.
Regarding trail experiences, Astungkara Way seeks to redefine travel as a profound connection with nature and culture, offering travellers something meaningful to take home. Fijal emphasizes that travel is not just about luxury resorts but can be a journey of awakening, self-discovery, and enlightenment.
Future Endeavours
As for future projects, Astungkara Way has ambitious plans to tackle Bali’s pressing issue of trash and pollution. Tim Fijal envisions a watershed cleaning initiative that spans from the mountains to the sea, drawing attention to the worsening trash problem in Bali. This project aims to engage people in a sexy movement to protect the environment and preserve the island’s natural beauty.
Words of Wisdom
For aspiring expatriates interested in similar endeavors, Fijal emphasizes the importance of taking things slow, understanding the local way of life, and avoiding a judgmental approach. Collaboration with Balinese team members and incorporating local insights are essential to successful engagement with the community.
In conclusion, Tim Fijal’s journey from Green School Bali to founding Astungkara Way is a testament to his unwavering dedication to sustainability, cultural exchange, and community empowerment. His work in promoting regenerative farming and transformative travel experiences is not only reshaping tourism but also making a positive impact on Bali’s environment and communities. Fijal’s advice to fellow expatriates is a powerful reminder of the importance of humility, cultural understanding, and collaboration in achieving meaningful change. With leaders like Tim Fijal at the helm, the future of sustainable tourism and regenerative farming in Bali looks brighter than ever.
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