Bandung Zoo Auction Expected to Conclude This Week

Bandung City Government is accelerating the process of reorganising and managing Bandung Zoo through a public tender for a management partner, aiming to conclude the re-tendering process this week. Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated that the initial tender did not reach an agreement, necessitating a re-tender. ‘The first tender did not reach an agreement, so a re-tender will be conducted. This time, we hope there will be room for negotiation between the tender organiser and participants,’ he said on Tuesday (26 May). Farhan explained that out of several participants, only three remain, deemed capable of progressing to the next stage of the partner selection process. However, he acknowledged challenges, particularly regarding the investment commitment value. He noted that Bandung Zoo is a high-value asset requiring a partner with strong financial and managerial capacity. ‘The challenge is the commitment value. This asset is extremely valuable, so we need a partner with robust financial and management capabilities,’ he added. Farhan said the city government is awaiting the final results from the tender committee and has received updates to report to the central government. ‘I received the results last night and must report to the ministry today,’ he stated. He added that the management contract for Bandung Zoo is designed for a long term of 26 years, with an estimated value in the trillions of rupiah, given the area’s economic potential. As a reference, Farhan mentioned that prior to audits, Bandung Zoo generated approximately Rp26 billion annually from ticket sales alone. ‘It must be concluded this week. I target completion by this week,’ he stressed. ‘It’s not about modern cages, but modernisation that genuinely cares for and welfare of the animals.’ Currently, Bandung City Government is evaluating several institutions or companies interested in managing Bandung Zoo. The proposed concept emphasises interactive visitor experiences while supporting the Reksawana Movement for Flora and Fauna Science Education. Faunaland has expressed readiness to participate in the selection process for the Utilisation Cooperation Partnership (KSP) management of Bandung Zoo. Bandung City Government assured optimal management and animal care at Bandung Zoo following the MoU extension with the Ministry of Forestry until May 2026.