With their ages-old ecological knowledge and strong ties to their lands, indigenous peoples possess invaluable knowledge that can be used to address the urgent problem of climate change. Their customs, which are frequently focused on managing resources sustainably and living in harmony with the environment, can teach modern society many lessons. Indigenous peoples are the most effective guardians of their forests of the enormous carbon and biodiversity conservation
Nevertheless, these same communities frequently encounter rights violations despite having the expertise and experience to save the environment. Their customary lands, which are essential to their cultural identity and environmental care, are often taken away from them, and they are often disregarded. Â Â
The irony is that those who have had a long history of coexisting peacefully with nature are frequently the first to suffer from climate change and environmental degradation. Resource extraction, environmental harm, and deforestation disturb their traditional ways of life, which are strongly linked to the environment. Additionally, they frequently miss out on decisions that impact their lands and means of livelihood. Â Â
Recognizing Indigenous peoples' vital contributions to environmental conservation is crucial.  Although it is very crucial, the Draft Law on the Recognition and Protection of Indigenous Legal Communities (RUU PPMHA) in Indonesia has regrettably not yet been given final House of Representatives (DPR) approval. Meanwhile, according to database records, 22.5 million hectares (55.6 million acres) of Indonesian Indigenous lands have high conservation potential, underscoring the importance of Indigenous management (Mongabay, 2024). Through enforcing their rights, safeguarding their territories, and integrating their indigenous wisdom into contemporary environmental regulations, we may strive for a more sustainable and just future. The emphasizes of  the recognition of the rights of indigenous people is necessary to achieve this.
