From Alor, Youth of NTT Move for Climate Justice: A Journey through GRUF 2025 Jamboree

The GRUF Jamboree is an annual gathering of youth communities within the Koalisi Kelompok Orang Muda untuk Perubahan Iklim (KOPI), or the Coalition of Youth Groups for Climate Change. The name “GRUF” refers to the spirit of cooperation across the islands in the Flobamoratas region, an acronym for Flores, Sumba, Timor, Alor, and the surrounding islands in NTT.

2025 marks the third year of the GRUF Jamboree, and this year felt particularly special. This was not only due to the increased number of participants but also to the event’s scale, the depth of the discussions, and the palpable spirit of collaboration present in every corner of the gathering.

With the theme “Taramiti Tominuku,” a motto from the Abui tribe of Alor meaning “different places of residence, but one; the GRUF 2025 Jamboree emphasises the importance of solidarity in diversity. Amidst the different challenges faced by each region, one thing unites them: anxiety about the future of the earth and hope for change.

Alor, the Home of GRUF 2025

Alor Island was chosen for a reason. It represents many of the issues at the intersection of climate justice: it is rich in marine and land biodiversity, with a strong cultural heritage, yet also vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Here, the paradox of climate justice is evident: the communities that contribute the least to carbon emissions are the ones most affected. Prolonged droughts, rising sea levels, and changing weather patterns have become daily realities that affect the livelihoods of coastal communities and small-scale farmers in Alor. In this context, the GRUF Jamboree becomes an essential space to respond, not just through theory but through real, community-based action.

More Than Just Fun, But Filled with Warmth

Over the course of five days, the GRUF 2025 Jamboree featured more than 25 activities—from workshops and discussions to art expressions and collective actions. These activities were designed to impart knowledge and create a safe space for sharing experiences, reflecting, and building networks of solidarity.

Some of the most memorable activities from the programme reflect a rich blend of local wisdom and climate awareness. In the Natural Dye Workshop led by Mama Sariat, a traditional textile artisan from Alor, participants learned how to use local plants as natural dyes, more than just crafting fabric, it was a lesson in sustainability, circular economy, and honouring local resources. Meanwhile, the Coral Reef Action brought participants together with coastal communities to engage in marine conservation by planting coral substrates, reminding everyone that protecting the ocean is part of securing the islands’ future. Through the PhotoVoice and Self-Expression session, participants captured their experiences and perspectives on climate change in photographs, which were later exhibited to spark powerful visual dialogues between communities. The Collective Kitchen served local foods like Nuabosi yam from Ende, seaweed lawar from Alor, wu’u corn from Lio, and jagung titi, These meals were more than daily nourishment; they told stories of food sovereignty, adaptation, and local resilience in the face of climate crises. Lastly, a series of talk shows and open dialogues explored critical topics such as youth advocacy, climate justice, and communication strategies, all discussed in a laid-back setting, under coconut trees on beach mats, fostering a grounded and intimate atmosphere for reflection.

Support from All Corners

This event did not occur in isolation. Support came from many parties, including the Alor Regional Government. The Regent of Alor, Iskandar Lakamau, officially opened the Jamboree and expressed his appreciation for the extraordinary initiative of the youth.

“I am proud that the young people came to Alor not for tourism, but to learn, discuss, and move together. We need more spaces like this,” he said in his opening speech.

Support from the local community was also felt warmly. From residents offering accommodations and mothers cooking local food to the young people of Alor involved as organisers, everyone showed that GRUF is a collective movement, not just for a few.

The Importance of Climate Change, The Message of GRUF 2025

Climate change is not a future threat; it is already happening and is felt in areas like NTT. However, national and international climate discussions often overlook the voices of youth from eastern Indonesia.

This is where GRUF’s role becomes crucial. It provides a space for young people to strengthen their voices, strategise, and challenge the dominant narratives around development and sustainability. The KOPI Coalition believes that solutions to the climate crisis must originate from grassroots efforts, communities, and the experiences of those most impacted.

“GRUF is not a space looking for quick solutions. It is a space for learning, mutual strengthening, and crafting collective steps toward just change,” said Dicky Lopulalan, Director of the KOPI Coalition.

The participants of GRUF 2025 left with more than just memories. They took with them new networks, fresh ideas, and, most importantly, the spirit to keep moving forward. Some communities have already planned follow-up actions: climate photo exhibitions, local food learning classes, and online social media campaigns.

GRUF is not the end. It is the starting point for a larger, stronger, and more collective movement.

About Perupadata 

Perupadata is a media company that transforms verified news, information, and data into clear, visual stories — from infographics to reports. Founded in 2020 and registered as PT Perupa Inspira Prakarsa in 2022, Perupadata helps people to spot misinformation and understand policy changes towards smarter decisions. As part of the VCA Alliance, Perupadata is proud to support collective efforts for the environment by strengthening communication strategies, amplifying the climate justice messaging clearer, louder, and more impactful.