Orangutans abused: NGO

JAKARTA: A non-governmental organization (NGO) complained on Monday about the condition of a protected species of orangutan (pongo pygmaeus) in the Gunung Mesigit conservation park in West Java.

Chief coordinator from the NGO, Animal Conservation for Life, Hardi Baktiantoro said one of the orangutans had recently been found with injuries to its head. He suspected that the animal had hurt itself due to depression.

"The native Borneo animal is forced to stay in a cage which does not meet animal welfare standards. The cage is too small and the orangutan receives no water," Hardi said.

He also suspected that the animal abuse resulted from confusion in the management of the conservation park, which is situated close to a hunting park.

Hardi demanded an immediate response from the ministry of forestry, before the alleged abusers can dispose of the evidence. -- JP