Forestry Ministry Deemed Capable of Addressing Root Causes of Elephant Conservation

The government’s move to issue Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 8 of 2026 concerning the Rescue of the Sumatran and Kalimantan Elephant Population and Habitat has garnered attention from international conservation circles. Chair of the IUCN SSC Asian Elephant Specialist Group, Heidi Riddle, assessed that the Ministry of Forestry understands the root problems faced in elephant conservation efforts in Indonesia. This assessment was conveyed by Heidi after a direct discussion with Raja Juli regarding various challenges in elephant conservation in Indonesia. “During my visit to Indonesia some time ago, I had the opportunity to meet and discuss directly with the Minister of Forestry, Mr. Raja Juli Antoni, regarding various challenges of elephant conservation in Indonesia,” she told reporters on Thursday, 16 July 2026. According to Heidi, the issue of elephant conservation is not only related to the protection of conservation areas, but also involves habitat connectivity, development, and the involvement of various sectors outside forestry. “I was very impressed with his understanding of the root problems faced in elephant conservation, ranging from the importance of maintaining habitat connectivity, building coexistence between humans and elephants, to the need to involve various sectors outside forestry in safeguarding the future of elephant populations. From the discussion, it was also clear that the Minister has a very strong commitment to strengthening elephant conservation efforts in Indonesia,” she said. She assessed that the challenges faced by Indonesia are also experienced by almost all countries that are habitats for elephants in Asia. Therefore, the cross-sector approach taken by Indonesia can serve as an example in the management of wildlife conservation. Previously, President Prabowo Subianto issued Presidential Instruction Number 8 of 2026 concerning the Rescue of the Sumatran and Kalimantan Elephant Population and Habitat as a strategic step to maintain wildlife sustainability amidst national development.