Memories of Catching Arowana with Bare Hands

KOMPAS/DIONISIUS REYNALDO TRIWIBOWO

Fishing boats float on the shallow waters of Sembuluh Lake on Aug. 30 at an oil palm plantation in Seruyan regency, Central Kalimantan. The lake has receded as usual during the dry season, revealing many fish in its oil-contaminated waters.

Like rice grains in a full granary -- that was how abundant the fish were in Sembuluh Lake, Central Kalimantan, 20 years ago. Locals are praying that the lake will recover.

Twenty years ago, Lake Sembuluh in Seruyan regency was surrounded by a lush forest that served as locals’ source of livelihood. As time went by, the lake became polluted and locals’ joyful days ended.