Titiek Soeharto: Tesso Nilo National Park Must Restore Its Function as Sumatran Elephant Sanctuary

Commission IV Chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives Siti Hediati Hariyadi, also known as Titiek Soeharto, has reaffirmed that Tesso Nilo National Park in Pelalawan District, Riau Province, must be restored to its function as a sanctuary for Sumatran elephants. This statement was made during Titiek Soeharto’s visit to Tesso Nilo accompanied by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni, and Riau Regional Police Commander Inspector General Herry Heryawan.

According to Titiek, the government’s firm actions are inseparable from President Prabowo Subianto’s strong commitment to environmental conservation. Tesso Nilo, which has recently come under scrutiny due to illegal encroachment, is now a priority for restoration.

“Because of President Prabowo’s strong commitment, Tesso Nilo National Park must be restored to its function as a national park, primarily as a habitat for elephants that we must protect,” Titiek said at the site on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.

Meanwhile, Titiek Soeharto also raised concerns about illegal settlements within Tesso Nilo. Although she supports relocation efforts, she has issued important notes regarding humanitarian considerations.

She warned against forcibly evicting communities already residing within the forest area without providing solutions. She requested the National Park Authority and related ministries to develop a thorough relocation scheme.

“I urge that relocation be carried out in the best possible manner. Before people are relocated, find them a place first. Don’t evict them before anything is prepared,” she added.

During the visit, Titiek also highlighted the disparity between the vast area requiring protection and the limited number of field personnel. The fact that only 23 forest police officers are tasked with supervising 81,000 hectares of land is seen as a significant loophole for illegal encroachers.

In response to this, Titiek called for inter-institutional synergy, particularly requesting support from the National Police to strengthen surveillance at vulnerable points.

“How can we monitor such a vast area? Perhaps we can ask the Police Chief and the Regional Police Commander to help preserve this national park,” she added.