Bandung Zoo to Remain Closed During 2026 Eid Holidays, Mayor Provides Rp1 Million to Workers
The Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, has once again emphasised that Bandung Zoo will not operate during the 2026 Eid holidays. This closure follows the lack of an officially appointed manager under the utilisation cooperation scheme (KSP) after the previous conservation institution’s permit expired.
The mayor stated this while distributing assistance to the zoo’s workers on Friday (20/3). Farhan, who directly met with the animal caretakers who have not received their rights since February, noted that the situation arose because the disbursement of funds from the Bandung City Government (Pemkot) is still awaiting the signing of the agreement.
“The funds can be disbursed at the earliest in April, as per our promise. As a gesture of care, the National Zakat Agency (Baznas) is providing aid to the workers. Each worker receives Rp1 million equally,” he said.
Despite the limitations, the workers continue to perform their duties in caring for and maintaining the animals’ health. Supervision is carried out by the Natural Resources Conservation Centre in collaboration with the West Java Provincial Forestry Service. Nevertheless, the zoo must remain closed to the public during the Eid period.
“Pemkot Bandung targets the appointment of a new manager to be completed by the end of April 2026. If it proceeds according to schedule, operations and supervision can begin in May,” he explained.
Farhan stated that prospective managers must meet the primary requirement of being a legal conservation institution with a permit from the Ministry of Forestry. Additionally, there are several supplementary provisions from Pemkot Bandung.
“Legacy employees must be retained, and the concept must not eliminate the distinctive Sundanese Drenten tradition,” he stressed.
Farhan also emphasised the importance of preserving the heritage of the Drenten founding family as part of the zoo’s historical value. The selection process will involve various parties, from the Centre for Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation, the Natural Resources Conservation Agency, the West Java Provincial Forestry Service, elements of Pemkot Bandung, to experts and cultural figures.
As an alternative tourist spot, Farhan recommended that the public visit the Ir. H. Djuanda Nature Reserve Forest (Tahura) for nature activities such as botram. However, he reminded that Tahura will only open on the second day of Eid or 2 Syawal.
Meanwhile, several other destinations in Bandung City will operate on a limited basis. The lower area of Baksil and Cikapundung Terrace will be open to the public, while the upper area of Baksil and Cihampelas Terrace remain temporarily closed.