Two Tiger Cubs Die, Bandung City Tightens Biosecurity at Bandung Zoo

The Bandung City Government is acting swiftly to conduct a total evaluation of the animal management and supervision systems at Bandung Zoo following the death of two eight-month-old tiger cubs. The captive-bred animals were found to be infected with the deadly acute Panleukopenia virus.

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan revealed that examinations by expert teams indicated the virus attacked with high virulence in the past week.

“This is a very important lesson. Panleukopenia is common, but when it strikes young big cats, the fatality rate is very high,” said Farhan during his direct inspection of Bandung Zoo on Thursday (26/3).

He emphasised that the Bandung City Government would immediately take swift action, both preventive and curative, to prevent similar cases and protect other animals.

The current main focus is on tightening biosecurity standards across the entire zoo area. In addition, a comprehensive evaluation of governance is being conducted, especially since the Bandung Zoo location borders directly with dense settlements and is still in the process of restructuring.

“We will tighten biosecurity and ensure the prevention system operates optimally so that this incident does not recur,” he stressed.

Farhan also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in improving the conservation ecosystem. Coordination is being strengthened with the West Java Provincial Government up to the Ministry of Forestry.

Another strategic step being prepared is the appointment of a legally established conservation institution as the official government partner in zoo management.

“This case becomes a momentum for major evaluation. With better governance and support from all parties, Bandung Zoo must remain safe for animals and a pride for West Java residents,” Farhan concluded.