Ganesha Named for Male Calf Elephant Born at Riau’s Tesso Nilo National Park

RRI.CO.ID, Pekanbaru - The male Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus) calf born to a mother named Lisa at the Elephant Flying Squad of Tesso Nilo National Park (TNTN) in Pelalawan Regency, Riau Province, has been named Ganesha. The name was bestowed by Siti Hediati Hariyadi (Titiek Soeharto), Speaker of Commission IV of the House of Representatives , and announced by Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, during a visit to Riau on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Minister Raja Juli expressed gratitude over the birth of Lisa’s sixth calf, describing it as positive news for Sumatran elephant conservation efforts in Tesso Nilo National Park. “Thank God, today we have a name for the baby, a baby boy. The name was given by Mrs. Titiek, the Speaker of Commission IV of the House, and the name is Ganesha,” Minister Raja Juli said on Wednesday.

The name Ganesha refers to the figure in Hindu tradition known for his elephant head and is often associated with wisdom and auspicious beginnings. The minister said the naming is intended to symbolize new life for the future of Sumatran elephants and their habitat.

Riau Regional Police Chief, Ins. Gen. Herry Heryawan, said he was initially given the opportunity to name the calf, but later yielded the chance to Titiek Soeharto.

“For us, this is not just about a name, but also about the hope that this birth will further strengthen our collective concern for the future of Sumatran elephants and their habitat,” said Herry, as quoted by infopublik.id.

According to Herry, Ganesha’s birth also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving Sumatran elephant habitat. Ganesha carries a message of new life and hope.

"We want him to grow up strong and safe in Riau. But our responsibility is far greater: ensuring that the forest and his living space remain intact,” he said.

Ganesha was born on Monday, September 28, 2026, at around 7 p.m. Jakarta time at the TNTN Elephant Flying Squad. Prior to giving birth, Lisa was under intensive monitoring by the team. Ganesha was reported to have been able to stand approximately 20 minutes after birth and showed a good response. ***