Luminox: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
Ramon: I’ve always been deeply passionate about the outdoors. From climbing towering peaks to cycling, scuba diving, and sea kayaking, I’m constantly seeking new challenges and adventures. My curiosity has always driven me to explore the world around me, pushing boundaries and conquering both physical and mental limits. This curiosity led me to host several documentary programs, including “100 Days Around Indonesia” in 2013.

I’ve been fortunate to undertake various expeditions across the globe, from climbing Kilimanjaro in Africa to trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal, exploring Peru’s Ausangate Trek, and reaching the iconic Machu Picchu. Most recently, I completed a 405 Kilometres sea kayaking circumnavigation of Belitung Island in Indonesia.

In addition to these personal ventures, I currently serve as an Editor-at-Large for National Geographic Indonesia’s #Sayapilihbumi (#IchooseEarth) campaign, an initiative promoting environmental responsibility. My work often intersects with local communities and NGOs, where I collaborate on projects aimed at sustainable development and environmental preservation.

Luminox: Can you talk us through your work in the community?
Ramon: As a campaigner, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with local communities, grassroots organizations, and environmental activists to develop impactful solutions for the climate crisis.

Together, we’ve worked on a range of initiatives, from raising awareness to implementing practical actions that protect our planet. One key focus is promoting sustainable practices and ensuring that people understand the crucial connection between the environment and their daily lives.

Through dialogue, education, and direct action, I’ve seen communities gradually embrace these efforts, fostering a collective responsibility for environmental stewardship.

Luminox: What motivated you to take these actions?
Ramon: We’re at a critical juncture in history. The degradation of our environment is not a distant threat, it’s an urgent reality. In Indonesia, where I live, we are home to the world’s largest and most diverse mangrove ecosystems, vital for carbon capture, climate resilience, and biodiversity.

These ecosystems support local communities and countless species, making them essential not just for Indonesia, but for the planet.

It’s clear that we must adapt to the changing climate, but more importantly, we must take proactive steps to mitigate the damage. We have a collective responsibility to do more than just acknowledge these issues—we must act, now, to preserve the future.

Luminox: How do you stay resilient in the face of adversity?
Ramon: I firmly believe that even the smallest actions can create a ripple effect, resulting in significant positive change. Every step counts, and no effort is too small. The key is to remain consistent and focused on the bigger picture. By fostering collective action, each individual contribution adds up, inspiring wider communities to join in and make an impact.

Luminox: How has your community responded to your actions? And what positive changes have you seen as a result of your efforts?
Ramon: The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and I’ve seen firsthand the power of community engagement in driving real change. Through grassroots initiatives, awareness campaigns, and collaboration with local organizations, we’ve seen tangible improvements in environmental practices and an increasing commitment to sustainability. People are more conscious of their environmental footprint, and there’s a growing collective effort to protect natural resources, especially in the areas most affected by climate change.

Luminox: How this experience changed you personally?
Ramon: These experiences have been deeply transformative. Having the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most stunning and awe-inspiring landscapes, while also witnessing areas ravaged by environmental degradation, has left an indelible mark on me. It’s clear that as humans, we have made choices that have drastically impacted the planet.

This realization saddens me, but it has also ignited a sense of urgency within me. I feel compelled to not only raise awareness but also to take concrete actions that contribute to positive change. These experiences have deeply shaped my purpose and commitment to making a lasting difference.

Luminox: What advice would you give to others who want to make a positive impact in their communities?
Ramon: Change starts with each of us. If we all work together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. We have a moral and ethical responsibility to be part of the solution, not the problem.

Every day, we should ask ourselves: “What positive changes can we make for the planet?” Our individual actions, no matter how small, can collectively lead to monumental shifts in the way we live and interact with the world around us. 

One day, we will look back and proudly say, “We made a difference.”

Luminox: How do you feel about being recognized by Luminox for your contributions?
Ramon: Being recognized by Luminox as an Everyday Hero is both an honor and a joy. Luminox has long been associated with resilience and durability, qualities that I deeply resonate with. The brand’s affiliation with Bear Grylls, who has always been an inspiring figure to me, makes this recognition even more meaningful.

It’s truly rewarding to be aligned with a brand that shares my commitment to adventure,
exploration, and environmental stewardship.

Luminox: What do you think of Luminox watches, and how would they fit into your daily life?
Ramon: The first Luminox watch I ever owned was the Luminox UVP Blue Scott Cassell 3954 series, which accompanied me on my 100-day journey around Indonesia in 2013. Since then, Luminox watches have been a constant companion on my adventures. Every time I wear one, I feel a surge of energy and determination—a reminder of the challenges I’ve overcome and the ones that lie ahead.

The Bear Grylls Eco Watch, in particular, serves as a powerful reminder of his mantra, “Never Give Up,” while also emphasizing the urgent need for environmental action. It’s more than just a watch—it’s a symbol of resilience, adventure, and responsibility.

Ramon received a MIL-SPEC inspired, 46 mm, Military Watch- 3351.SET and a Bear Grylls Survival ECO, 42 mm, Rule of 3 - 3721.ECO.