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Six Critically Endangered Orangutans are Returned to Their Natural Habitat

On June 26, 2023, a momentous event took place in the heart of Borneo, Indonesia, as six critically endangered Bornean orangutans were returned to their natural habitat in the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park. This significant achievement was made possible through the joint efforts of the West Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Office (BKSDA), the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park Authority (TNBBBR), and the Indonesian partners of International Animal Rescue (IAR), YIARI. The release marked the culmination of years of dedication and commitment to conserving these magnificent creatures and restoring their populations in the wild.

Source: International Animal Rescue IAR/YouTube

The journey of these orangutans began at various times between 2012 and 2020 when they were entrusted to the YIARI Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Ketapang, West Kalimantan. There, they underwent rehabilitation, medical care, and behavioral studies to ensure they were healthy and ready for their eventual return to the wild.

The release operation commenced on June 22, 2023, starting from YIARI’s rehabilitation center in Ketapang. After days of meticulous planning and preparation, the mission was completed on June 26, as the six orangutans, consisting of one male named Budi and five females – Tulip, Bianca, Jamilah, Faini, and Covita – were finally set free in their natural habitat.

The release of these orangutans signifies a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to safeguard protected wildlife and revitalize orangutan populations. RM Wiwied Widodo, Head of the West Kalimantan BKSDA, emphasized the significance of this endeavor, stating, “Returning an animal to this condition is a long process and certainly isn’t easy. Human beings should not keep orangutans imprisoned in cages. It is done entirely out of selfishness. They must be allowed to live freely to maintain the balance in nature.”

The collaboration between the West Kalimantan BKSDA Office, the National Park Authority (BTNBBBR), and YIARI has been instrumental in orchestrating numerous orangutan releases since 2016, with a total of 69 rehabilitated orangutans having been successfully released in the area to date. The region’s National Park has proven to be a suitable and nurturing habitat for the orangutans, as evidenced by the birth of five baby orangutans registered in the area, which further highlights the significance of protecting and preserving this critical ecosystem.

Andi Muhammad Kadhafi, Head of the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park Office, emphasized the need for continued Support and collaboration to ensure the survival of the Critically Endangered Bornean orangutans, not only for the current generation but also for the generations to come. He urged, “Together we must protect wild animals and protect the forest sustainably for the sake of the children and grandchildren who follow us.”

Budi, the only male orangutan among the released group, had spent nearly nine years in rehabilitation since his rescue in December 2014. The five female orangutans, each with their own unique stories of rescue and rehabilitation, have also been given a second chance at life in the wild.

YIARI, as a partner of the Ministry of Environment, expressed its pride and appreciation for the successful release operation, especially considering the challenging weather patterns driven by Climate change. Silverius Oscar Superior, Chairman General of YIARI, emphasized that a multi-stakeholder partnership is crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of these released orangutans in their natural habitat.

The President of International Animal Rescue, Alan Knight, praised the combined efforts of all involved organizations, calling the reintroduction of rehabilitated orangutans a phenomenal example of what can be achieved through determination and commitment to wildlife Conservation.

The chosen release site in the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park was carefully selected for its forest condition, providing the ideal habitat and ample food sources for the orangutans. Although the remote location required considerable effort to reach, it ensured enhanced security for the orangutans, allowing them to thrive in their natural environment.

The Head of the West Kalimantan BKSDA, RM Wiwied Widodo, closed the event with hope and determination, stating, “Through the implementation of orangutan release activities in the Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park area, we hope that orangutans that until now still hold the Critically Endangered (CR) Conservation status according to IUCN data can increase in number and maintain sustainable populations in the wild.”

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