RRI.CO.ID, Ambon - The Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), in collaboration with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), has successfully released rescued wildlife back into their natural habitat within the Karangguli Customary Forest, Aru Islands, Maluku.

"Before being released, all animals underwent intensive observation and care at the Dobo Resort Wildlife Conservation Station to ensure their health and readiness to return to the wild," said Head of KSDA Region III Saumlaki, Lebrina Serpara, on Sunday, April 12, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The animals were previously confiscated at the Yos Sudarso Dobo Port in Aru Islands Regency, Maluku. The release included five Yellow-crested Cockatoos (Cacatua galerita), known locally as Kakatua Koki, into their natural environment.

Regarding their conservation status, while the species is listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, it remains strictly protected under Indonesian law and is included in Appendix II of CITES to regulate international trade.

The primary goal of this release is to restore the birds' ecological roles within the forest ecosystem, where they contribute to vital natural processes. The Karangguli Customary Forest was specifically selected as the ideal habitat for this initiative due to its well-preserved ecosystem, which provides an optimal environment for the birds to adapt and thrive.

BKSDA and BRIN will continue to monitor the released birds to ensure their long-term survival and successful adaptation. This initiative serves as a reaffirmation of the administration's commitment to Maluku's biodiversity.

Authorities also issued a stern reminder to the public regarding the legal consequences of wildlife crime. Under Law No. /1990 concerning the Conservation of Living Natural Resources and their Ecosystems, anyone caught capturing, harming, killing, or trading protected species faces, imprisonment: Up to five years and fines up to IDR 100 million.

The BKSDA encourages citizens to actively participate in conservation by reporting illegal hunting and avoiding the purchase of protected wildlife as pets.

The Karangguli Customary Forest was chosen as the release site because its preserved ecosystem provides a high-quality habitat that supports the natural behavior of the cockatoos. By returning these birds to the wild, BKSDA ensures they can continue their ecological functions, such as seed dispersal, which is vital for forest regeneration.

To ensure the success of the program, BKSDA and BRIN have implemented a post-release monitoring strategy to track the birds' adaptation process. Furthermore, by engaging the local community and enforcing strict legal penalties, the administration aims to create a sustainable safety net for protected species in the Maluku region. ***