KBRN, Tabanan: Bali's Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), through officers from the Tabanan Region Conservation Area Resort, in collaboration with the Friends of Nature, People and Forest (FNPF) Foundation, has successfully released one Javan pangolin (Manis javanica) into its natural habitat. This activity represents a tangible commitment to preserving protected wild animals.

The release was conducted in the Besi Kalung Protected Forest area, Penebel Subdistrict, Tabanan Regency, Bali. This forest features ecological conditions suitable for the pangolin's natural habitat, with a still-pristine environment capable of supporting the animal's survival needs in the wild.

The pangolin is a scaly mammal, insectivorous (insect-eater), and nocturnal. This animal has a unique self-defense mechanism, which is rolling itself into a ball when feeling threatened.

Pangolins play a crucial role in maintaining forest ecosystem balance, particularly in controlling soil insect populations. Currently, the pangolin is one of the most threatened animals due to poaching and illegal trade.

These threats are fueled by various myths circulating in society, especially the belief that pangolin scales have medicinal properties. This situation has caused a significant and ongoing decline in wild pangolin populations.

Under Indonesian law, the pangolin is one of the protected wild animals. This is based on Environment Ministry Regulation No. P.106/MENLHK/SETJEN/KUM.1/12/2018, the Second Amendment to Environment Ministry No. P.20/MENLHK/SETJEN/KUM.1/6/2018 on Protected Plant and Animal Species.

"The pangolin that was released is an animal handed over by the community to BKSDA Bali and has undergone treatment at the Tabanan Wildlife Rescue Center (PPS), managed by FNPF. After being declared healthy and fit by the veterinarian, the pangolin was released today at 10 a.m. local time. We hope this pangolin can adapt and thrive in its natural habitat," said the Tabanan Region Conservation Area Resort Officer on Monday, January 12, 2026.

This successful release would not have been possible without the active role of the community and support from various parties. Pangolin conservation efforts are not solely the government's responsibility, but require concern and participation from all elements of society.

“We urge the public not to keep, trade, or utilize parts of protected animals. If you find a pangolin or other wild animals, immediately report it to BKSDA Bali so it can be handled in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” said Ratna Hendratmoko, Head of BKSDA Bali. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)