Indonesia releases two orangutans at Central Kalimantan national park

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni released two orangutans at Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan, reaffirming the government's steadfast commitment to ensuring the survival of endemic species. 

"The Forestry Ministry remains committed to strengthening collaboration with conservation bodies, regional governments, and the public to support the continued protection of orangutans and forest ecosystems," he stated in a press release on Monday. 

Antoni explained that the two orangutans—a 17-year-old male named Douglas Soledo and a 25-year-old female named Robina—were returned to their natural habitat on Saturday (December 27) after undergoing an extensive rehabilitation process. 

"Orangutans belong in the jungle. Our efforts are aimed at safeguarding their habitats so that future generations have the opportunity to see them," he emphasized. 

The minister further stressed that all parties share responsibility for promoting forest sustainability and protecting them from encroachment and human-induced damage. 

In Central Kalimantan, Antoni also visited the Orangutan Care Center and Quarantine (OCCQ), managed by Orangutan Foundation International (OFI), in Pasir Panjang Village, West Kotawaringin District. 

He noted that the conservation facility cares for around 320 orphaned young orangutans and serves as a center for quarantine, medical treatment, and physical and mental rehabilitation, preparing the great apes to return to the wild. 

Founded by Dr. Birute Mary Galdikas in 1986, OFI has worked closely with the Indonesian government to rescue, rehabilitate, and release orangutans, while also taking measures to safeguard their habitat. 

On that note, Antoni expressed appreciation to OFI and Dr. Galdikas for their long-standing dedication to helping Indonesia protect its endemic wildlife. 

"One year ago, I welcomed Madam Birute to my office. I can confirm that all this progress is the result of the hard work carried out by her and her colleagues at the facility," he said. 

He added that the government and communities should take inspiration from her 50 years of dedication to protecting orangutans and their habitat.