Mohamad Naliko

Monal is the passionate owner of Papua Birding, where his enthusiasm for bird photography and birdwatching shines through in every aspect of his work. As a seasoned professional birding tour operator and leader, he embarks on extensive travels, meticulously organizing and conducting exhilarating birding trips to some of the most breathtaking birding hotspots across Southwest Papua, West Papua, and the enchanting landscapes of Papua, Indonesia.

Monal, a vibrant and dynamic figure, adds charm to the bird photography guiding experience. With an ever-present smile and a contagious energy, he captivates all who accompany him on his adventures. Monal’s friendly and approachable demeanor makes him not just a guide, but a true companion in the field, always ready to lend a helping hand or share an insightful tip. While he is deeply committed to the thrill of spotting target birds during each expedition he leads, his serious focus is balanced by a delightful sense of humor that emerges once the day’s goals are achieved. This unique blend of professionalism and warmth ensures that every excursion is productive and filled with laughter and shared moments of joy for everyone involved.

Sultan Jaycer Naliko

Sultan Jaycer Naliko, our son, is now 20 years old and has developed a deep passion for bird guiding in the breathtaking landscapes of Papua. With his fluency in English, he effectively communicates with international tourists, making their experiences memorable and informative. Jaycer takes great pride in leading several bird photography trips throughout Papua, where he meticulously organizes each journey, ensuring that both aspiring photographers and bird enthusiasts get the most out of their adventures. 

In addition to his love for bird guiding, Jaycer is an avid underwater photographer. His interest in diving has led him to explore the vibrant underwater ecosystems of Papua, capturing the beauty of marine life through his lens. This combination of skills allows him to share the wonders of both the avian and aquatic worlds, reflecting his dedication to nature and conservation.

Ning Ahmad

Ning is the financial manager of Papua Birding. Previously, she worked as a manager at a well-known souvenir shop in Manado, which was located next to Monal’s former office. It was here that she met Monal, and they eventually fell in love and got married. Together, they have built the company from the ground up. Ning is also responsible for managing tour logistics, making her the operational heart of the company. She is modest and friendly, always going the extra mile to ensure everything is arranged perfectly.

Harmeen

Harmeen was born and raised in the heart of the Sulawesi in Gorontalo, Indonesia.  After graduating with a degree in Eco-tourism school from Sulawesi, he became qualified as a Nature and island survival guide in his town near Nantu National Reserve and Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park he also began working with Sultan Birding in 2013 and living in Manado near Tangkoko NP for several years.  This is where he met his first birder and instantly became hooked.  He quickly began to study, observe, and learn everything he could about the local bird population.  He then moved to the west-east of Papua and was given the opportunity to begin guiding/leading birding groups at the well-known of all around in Papua Forest Reserve.  Little by little he started birding and leading groups all over around. Harmeen has been professionally guiding for well over a decade in Sulawesi and Papua.  His easy mannerisms and vast knowledge of the politics and culture of Papua make him a wonderful travel companion.  Harmeen has traveled and birded various parts of Papua and Sulawesi.

Harmeen is a licensed  Guide for Indonesia and spends much of his time working with Nature and forest, training/licensing local guides, giving educated workshops, and actively participating as a board member of the Indonesian Tourist Guide Association.

Alex

Alex has been working with us for a long time and has established himself as a professional car driver. Recently, he has also discovered a remarkable talent for piloting drones. He skillfully captures our bird photography and birdwatching adventures, transforming our experiences into stunning videos that highlight the beauty of nature during our trips. His ability to seamlessly blend his driving expertise with his newfound passion for drone photography has added a unique dimension to our outings.

Meriba Suade

Meriba Suade is a seasoned and passionate tour guide with over 23 years of experience guiding tourists through the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of Indonesia. Throughout his extensive career, he has specialized in cultural, adventure, and tribal tours across the archipelago, including the vibrant regions of Sumatera, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Papua, and West Papua. Meriba has had the pleasure of escorting a diverse array of travelers, from individual adventurers to groups from the Netherlands, England, and the Czech Republic, each seeking to immerse themselves in the unique heritage of these islands. Having collaborated with numerous tour operators before joining the esteemed Papua Birding, Meriba has developed a deep understanding of the tourism industry. Currently, he focuses his expertise on birdwatching tours in the breathtaking locations of Sulawesi, the Mollucas, and Papua. At 53 years old, Meriba's insatiable curiosity about bird species drives him to continuously expand his knowledge, making birdwatching not just a profession for him, but a true passion. His commitment to excellence, combined with his professionalism and extensive knowledge, has earned him the trust and admiration of Papua Birding, where he plays a pivotal role as one of their leading tour guides. Whether navigating lush rainforests or providing insights into local wildlife, Meriba Suade is dedicated to ensuring that every tour is an unforgettable experience for all who join him

Marlon

Marlon is an experienced bird guide residing in Waigeo, known for his exceptional skills in leading our bird photography excursions and birdwatching trips. With extensive knowledge of the local avifauna and the diverse habitats of the region, he has an impressive ability to spot birds in their natural environments. Whether you are aiming to photograph a rare species or simply observe local wildlife, Marlon is dedicated to ensuring you have a rewarding experience. Just let him know which bird you are hoping to see, and he will use his keen observational skills and expertise to locate them for you. His passion for birds and commitment to his clients make him an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore the rich birdlife of Waigeo.

Ian

Ian is our primary contact in Waigeo, serving as an invaluable resource for all aspects of our trip. He is responsible for coordinating transportation and works directly with the local landowner who knows the precise locations of the birds we wish to observe. Ian is our trusted guide, making all necessary reservations for accommodations at the resort, and arranging for knowledgeable local guides who enhance our experience in the area. In addition to these responsibilities, he handles logistics such as car transport, ensuring that our travel within Waigeo is smooth and efficient. Ian collaborates closely with the local landowner to guarantee that we have access to the best birdwatching spots. Furthermore, he manages the financial aspects of our visit, taking care of local payments for entrance fees and any services provided by the local guides. Thanks to ian's expertise and local connections, we can enjoy a well-organized and enriching experience in Waigeo.

Celly

Celly is an integral part of our team in the picturesque Arfak Mountains. She takes great pride in overseeing the culinary experiences of our guests at Maibri Birding Ecolodge. Beyond her role as a chef, Celly serves as a vital link to the warm-hearted residents of Maibri Village, ensuring an authentic cultural experience for our visitors.  Guests are treated to an array of delectable dishes, skillfully prepared by our talented chef Celly, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Each meal is a delightful celebration of regional flavors, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the area. Having journeyed from Manado, Celly brings not only her culinary expertise but also a genuine passion for hospitality. Her bright smile and friendly demeanor create a welcoming atmosphere, making every guest's stay a truly memorable one. Whether savoring a dish or engaging in lively conversation, Celly ensures that each experience at our lodge is filled with warmth and joy.

Ridzuan

Ridzuan is our highly experienced four-wheel driver based in Manokwari, a pivotal figure in managing our logistics and transportation to the stunning Arfak Mountains. With an extensive knowledge of the region, he has established a strong rapport with the local tribe in Kampung Maibri, fostering trust and respect that enhances our operations. Recognized as a well-known driver throughout Manokwari, Ridzuan possesses an intimate understanding of the local routes, ensuring safe and efficient travels through sometimes challenging terrain. His local connections are invaluable, as they help him navigate the area with ease and facilitate smooth interactions with community members. In addition to his driving duties, Ridzuan plays a crucial role in managing our accommodations at the lodge in Maibri Village. He meticulously checks the room facilities, ensuring everything is in optimal condition for our guests' comfort. His dedication extends to overseeing the food supply, making sure that meals are plentiful and meet our clients' preferences. Ridzuan goes above and beyond by making frequent trips between Manokwari town and the Arfak Mountains, all to ensure that any needs or requests from our clients are promptly addressed.