Gibran ensures orangutan care remains prioritised amidst forest fire smoke
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has ensured that the care requirements for orangutans affected by smoke from forest and land fires (karhutla) are being met during his visit to the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan.
The visit is part of a series of inspections by the Vice President regarding the handling of forest fires in Central Kalimantan, including their impact on wildlife and habitats.
“The handling of forest fires must be comprehensive. Humans must be protected, but we must not ignore wildlife and their habitats. I want to ensure that the care needs here are truly being met,” Gibran stated in a statement received in Jakarta on Thursday.
At the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, managed by the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOSF), Gibran observed the rehabilitation and care processes for orangutans and engaged in dialogue with veterinarians, volunteers, and the teams involved in wildlife protection.
The Vice President also handed over aid in the form of medicines, onions, and nebulisers to support the needs of the rehabilitation centre.
“Wildlife protection and environmental restoration are important, interconnected issues. This includes healing injured animals as well as restoring food sources, water, and ecosystems for wildlife,” he said.
The Vice President also expressed his appreciation to veterinarians, animal lovers, volunteers, foundations, and other parties involved in wildlife protection and care.
“Thank you to the veterinarians, animal lovers, volunteers, foundations, and the entire team who continue to provide care to protect Indonesia’s wildlife. Your real actions are very meaningful,” he said.
During the visit, the Vice President also inspected the BOSF Nyaru Menteng Forest School, which serves as a training ground for 17 orangutans.
In the quarantine area, there are approximately 90 orangutans undergoing care in various enclosures according to the specific conditions and needs of each animal.
According to a BOSF update as of Sunday (6/9), the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre has not been directly impacted by fires. However, 21 orangutans have shown symptoms of respiratory distress consistent with acute respiratory infection (ISPA), such as coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
The BOSF veterinary and animal welfare team continues to monitor the condition of these orangutans and provide treatment tailored to each individual’s needs.