East Kalimantan BKSDA conducts translocation simulation for Bornean rhino

Samarinda — The East Kalimantan Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has conducted a translocation simulation to safeguard the Mahulu Bornean rhino in its natural habitat.

“Saving the Bornean rhino requires more than hope—it demands preparedness, precision, and collaboration among all parties on the ground,” said BKSDA East Kalimantan Chief M Ari Wibawanto in Samarinda on Saturday.

Through this technical training, all members of the joint team are practicing hands-on to address potential critical situations during the rhino rescue in the wild.

“Intensive field exercises are a crucial step to ensure the entire team understands their roles, operational procedures, and precise wildlife handling steps,” Ari added.

During the simulation, BKSDA East Kalimantan organised a technical knowledge-sharing session with national rhino conservation experts.

Ari stated that in-depth analysis and empirical experience exchange serve as strategic learning opportunities to strengthen the joint team’s institutional capacity in supporting the smooth execution of Kalimantan’s rhino conservation programme.

The Mahulu Bornean rhino is one of the rare individuals from Kalimantan’s rhino population still detected residing in its natural forest habitat.

The simulation is part of extensive preparations for the eventual evacuation of the Mahulu Bornean rhino to a safer conservation sanctuary.

“Behind every rigorous field exercise lies a firm commitment from all parties to preserve hope for the future survival of Kalimantan’s rhino population,” Ari said.

He added that support from all stakeholders is crucial for this rescue mission, as the existence of Kalimantan’s rhinos is real and a collective duty to protect from extinction.