Two Tiger Cubs Die at Bandung Zoo, Ono Surono Blames Negligence by City Government and Forestry Ministry
Huru and Hara, two tiger cubs at Bandung Zoo, have died. The incident has drawn the attention of West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono.
He expressed deep concern over their deaths on Tuesday (24/3). The deaths were attributed to infection with Panleukopenia virus (Feline Panleukopenia).
“The death of these two tiger cubs is not just an ordinary incident. It was predicted long ago due to the prolonged conflict in managing Bandung Zoo and the lack of concern from both central and local governments,” said the Chairman of the West Java PDI Perjuangan DPD on Thursday (26/3).
Ono assessed that this must be a serious concern for the Bandung City Government, the Forestry Ministry, and other related parties.
“There are several points to note. First, Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan should have anticipated from the start and ensured that all animals at Bandung Zoo are well cared for. He should also have ensured the animals’ welfare is maintained, regarding their food and health. However, in reality, this has not been implemented,” he stressed.
Secondly, continued Ono, the Ministry, which has authority over issuing permits and supervising zoos, is also deemed not to have carried out its responsibilities maximally to ensure maintenance standards are met.
On the other hand, the foundation whose permit was revoked by the Forestry Ministry is still factually involved in the independent management of Bandung Zoo.
Relying only on limited public donations has resulted in a decline in the quality of animal care and feed.
That, said Ono, is the factor behind the death of the two Bengal tiger cubs Huru and Hara.
Megawati’s Suggestion
“I have directly observed in August 2025, both the Bandung Zoo management and the Bandung Mayor. At that time, I brought a message and offer from the Chair of the BRIN Supervisory Board, Ibu Megawati Soekarnoputri, for cooperation in animal care and maintenance with Ragunan Zoo or Surabaya Zoo,” he continued.
In addition, there is an alternative for saving the animals by relocating them to Ragunan Zoo or Surabaya Zoo. But the Bandung Mayor did not respond to the message and offer seriously.
“They will handle the Bandung Zoo issue themselves. Now the result is proven, two tiger deaths,” said Ono.
Ono urged the Bandung Mayor, relevant Ministries, and the managing foundation to immediately coordinate and improve the care and maintenance of all animals at Bandung Zoo.
“Food standards, cage cleanliness, and health checks must be carried out as best as possible so that no more deaths of other rare animals occur,” he stressed.
He emphasised that this incident must not be repeated.
“We all must ensure that the animals at Bandung Zoo receive proper care. The Ministry must take quick steps, relocate all those animals to other zoos or immediately raise funds to ensure animal welfare is provided as best as possible. If the government is not ready, then the public, including us, will be ready to do it,” Ono concluded.
Huru and Hara are cubs from the parent pair Shah Rukh Khan (22 years) and Jelita (4.5 years) who were born on 12 July 2025.
Huru and Hara were introduced to the public by Bandung Zoo in September 2025.