Indonesia Government Plans New Policy to Save Endangered Sumatran Elephants

Presidential instruction aims to reconnect shrinking habitats and combat ivory poaching

Indonesia is preparing a new national policy to protect the critically endangered Sumatran elephant as rapid habitat loss and illegal poaching continue to threaten the species’ survival.

Government Preparing New Protection Policy

Indonesia is drafting a presidential instruction aimed at safeguarding the endangered Sumatran elephant.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the policy will prioritise habitat restoration and stronger conservation measures to support the long-term survival of the species.

Rapid Decline in Elephant Habitats

Elephant habitat pockets across Sumatra have dramatically declined over the years.

According to the forestry ministry, the number of habitats has dropped from 44 areas to just 11 by the end of 2024 due largely to illegal forest activities and land fragmentation.

Restoring Critical Wildlife Corridors

A key focus of the new policy will be reconnecting fragmented elephant corridors across the island.

Restoring these ecological pathways will allow elephants to move safely between habitats, helping maintain genetic diversity and ecosystem balance.

Population Remains Critically Threatened

Indonesia estimates that only around 1,200 Sumatran elephants remain in the wild, primarily across Aceh and Lampung.

The species remains classified as endangered, with habitat loss and human activity continuing to pose major threats to its survival.

Authorities Intensify Anti-Poaching Efforts

Ivory poaching remains a serious concern for conservation authorities.

Antoni praised recent enforcement actions by the Riau Regional Police against wildlife crimes and emphasised that the government will take firm action against offenders involved in illegal poaching.

Indonesia’s planned presidential instruction reflects growing urgency to protect the Sumatran elephant before its population declines further. By restoring habitats and strengthening enforcement against wildlife crimes, the government hopes to secure a more sustainable future for one of the country’s most iconic endangered species.

Sources: EN Antara (2026)

Keywords: Sumatran Elephant Conservation Indonesia, Presidential Instruction Wildlife Protection, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, Elephant Habitat Corridors Sumatra, Indonesia Anti Poaching Efforts