Apiculture and Environmental Literacy, Lessons from Dr. Wahyudi’s Sustainable Honey Farm in Bali

Royal Honey Sakah offers students a chance to learn about tropical apiculture in a hands-on way. Many participants in the Upskill program come from countries with different climates, so the experience provides new insights into how bees behave in a tropical environment. Students study native bee species like Apis cerana, Apis dorsata, and the stingless Heterotrigona itama. The honey produced by stingless bees, known locally as madu kelulut, is especially valued for its health benefits, even though the bees produce less of it compared to other species.

One of the common questions Dr. Wahyudi hears from international visitors is about the honey's consistency. “We often get visitors asking, ‘Why is the honey here liquid, while in my country it's crystallized?’” he says. “It’s because in tropical climates, especially with stingless bees, the honey retains a different moisture content. In countries with four seasons, crystallization is common due to environmental differences.”

In addition to bee species and behavior, the program covers topics like vegetation and its role in honey production, predator management, and honey testing methods. Dr. Wahyudi is eager to share his knowledge about how to recognize authentic honey. “We explain how to tell real honey by taste, texture, and through lab testing,” he says. “Many researchers from Japan and Australia have visited us. It’s more than just a farm—it’s a place to exchange knowledge.”

The project also reflects values that are central to Balinese life, including Tri Hita Karana, which highlights the importance of balance between people, nature, and spiritual life. For Dr. Wahyudi, beekeeping is not only about producing honey but also about preserving traditions, supporting ecosystems, and building community connections. He has worked with the Upskill Study program for over three years and regularly hosts both local and international students at Royal Honey Sakah.

Looking ahead, Dr. Wahyudi hopes to welcome even more students and researchers. “My hope is not just for Upskill, but for many more countries to come here, learn together, and share knowledge,” he says. “Beekeeping is a window into nature and a bridge between cultures.”

Through Royal Honey Sakah, Dr. I Wayan Wahyudi shows how beekeeping, when rooted in education and community values, can support both environmental conservation and cultural exchange. For students in the Upskill program, it offers a valuable learning experience grounded in real-life practice.