Bali Quarantine Receives International Award for Wildlife Traffic Monitoring

RRI.CO.ID, Bali - The Bali Agricultural Quarantine Center received an award from the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission Asian Songbird Trade Specialist Group (IUCN SSC ASTSG) for its consistency in monitoring traffic and preventing illegal wildlife trade. This international award was given as a form of appreciation for the performance of Bali Quarantine in collaboration with various cross-sector agencies in thwarting various attempts to smuggle wild birds and illegal songbirds in Bali.

In addition to appreciating enforcement efforts, the IUCN SSC ASTSG also considers the monitoring steps taken by Bali Quarantine to support the rescue of bird populations from the threat of illegal trade. This is also in line with the global conservation strategy to protect Asia's songbirds.

The Head of the Bali Agricultural Quarantine Center, Heri Yuwono, stated that Bali's position as a strategic area with high mobility of goods and passengers necessitates special attention in monitoring wildlife traffic. This statement was conveyed by Heri through an electronic message received by journalists on Sunday, August 30, 2026.

He explained that the supervision is carried out as part of the Quarantine duties and to prevent the entry and spread of Quarantine Animal Pest and Disease (HPHK), including the risk of avian influenza or bird flu and other zoonotic diseases. "Through supervision at various main entry points, such as Gilimanuk Port, Padang Bai Port, and air and sea cargo routes, the Bali Quarantine team consistently secures birds that are transported without the required Animal Health Certificate or other necessary documents," said Heri.

On the other hand, efforts to prevent illegal bird trade are also part of biodiversity protection, considering that excessive exploitation of songbirds in the wild can threaten population sustainability and ecosystem balance. To strengthen this oversight, Bali Quarantine continues to collaborate with the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Center, the Port Area Police, and various other related agencies, including through the handling and release of wildlife seized in operations that are still suitable to be returned to their natural habitat, such as in the conservation area of West Bali National Park.

Heri stated that the award from IUCN SSC ASTSG serves as motivation for the Bali Quarantine team to continuously improve professionalism and strengthen cross-sector cooperation. "This award encourages us to maintain integrity and enhance synergy together so that Indonesia's rich biodiversity remains sustainable for future generations," he said.

Through consistent supervision and cross-sector collaboration, the Indonesian Quarantine Agency through Bali Quarantine continues to strengthen its role in maintaining biosecurity. The Quarantine Agency is committed to supporting the protection and preservation of Indonesia's wildlife amidst the high mobility of goods and passengers crossing the Bali region.