BKSDA Aceh Translocates Orangutan Isolated in Resident's Plantation

The Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has translocated a Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii) that was isolated in a resident’s plantation in Aceh Tamiang Regency. Head of BKSDA Aceh Ujang Wisnu Barata stated on Friday that the translocation aimed to prevent negative interactions between the protected animal and the community, which could potentially lead to economic losses. “The BKSDA team, together with partners, translocated one orangutan isolated in an ‘other use area’ (APL), specifically a community plantation. The translocation aims to prevent interactions between this protected wild animal and the community,” he said. The lone Sumatran orangutan was found isolated in a community plantation in Kaloy Village, Tamiang Hulu District, Aceh Tamiang Regency, on Tuesday (16/6). “The orangutan is female, with an estimated age of 25 years. When found, the orangutan was in healthy condition and the medical team recommended immediate release into its natural habitat,” he added. BKSDA urged the public not to keep, trade, or capture Sumatran orangutans, as the species is protected by law. He said the appeal was to prevent poaching and illegal trade, which are the main threats to the orangutan population. Furthermore, BKSDA called on the community to protect the surrounding forests and ecosystems, and to refrain from logging or clearing land in forest areas that serve as orangutan habitats. “We also urge that if anyone encounters an orangutan outside the forest, in plantations, or in residential areas, they should immediately report it to the BKSDA call centre at 085362836024 or to the nearest BKSDA officer,” said Ujang Wisnu Barata.