Orangutan Translocated in West Kalimantan to Reduce Human-Wildlife Conflict

RRI.CO.ID, Pontianak - West Kalimantan’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) and the Indonesian Rehabilitation Initiative Foundation (YIARI) successfully translocated an orangutan from Pemangkat Jaya Hamlet, Kayong Utara, to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.

“The translocation activity involved the Gunung Palung National Park Office, members of the Indonesian military and police, and the local community,” said Muhadi, Assistant Manager of the YIARI Orangutan Protection Unit, in Pontianak on Sunday, April 26, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The decision was taken after residents reported that the orangutan had repeatedly appeared in community gardens since late last year, raising concerns and causing losses.

Muhadi explained that translocation was chosen as a last resort after a comprehensive assessment. “Translocation ensures the safety of the orangutan while reducing the potential for conflict with humans. This is the final step after a thorough evaluation,” he said.

The orangutan was anesthetized and examined by veterinarians before being moved. Following a two-hour journey by land and water, the animal was released into Gunung Palung National Park, a protected forest with abundant food sources. Its immediate response, moving away and displaying wild behavior, was seen as a positive sign of adaptation to its new environment.

YIARI veterinarian Rachel noted that while old wounds and tooth damage were detected, the orangutan was otherwise healthy and fit for release. “Overall, the orangutan is healthy and ready for translocation,” she said.

Head of the West Kalimantan BKSDA, Murlan Dameria Pane, praised the collaboration among stakeholders and the local community. “This translocation is part of efforts to save orangutans while reducing conflict with humans. Community support and cross-stakeholder collaboration are crucial to the success of this activity,” he said.

YIARI Chairman Silverius Oscar Unggul emphasized the need for integrated land-use planning to prevent future conflicts. “Rapid land-use change poses a major challenge for orangutan survival. A shared commitment is needed so that humans and wildlife can coexist sustainably,” he said. ***