Two Tiger Cubs Die, Bandung Mayor Calls for Overhaul of Bandung Zoo Management
Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has emphasised that a thorough evaluation of the management of Bandung Zoo will be conducted following the death of two Bengal tiger cubs, Huru and Hara, who were just eight months old.
“The loss of these two tiger cubs is not only a heavy blow but also a serious warning for us. We are deeply saddened and concerned. In the future, this incident must serve as a turning point for concrete improvements,” Farhan stated, as reported by Antara on Thursday (26/3).
He assessed that the incident spotlighted the weaknesses in the management system that has been in place, particularly in ensuring the safety and survival of the animals. According to him, as a conservation institution, the zoo does not only function as a place for animal care but also bears a significant responsibility in safeguarding the successful reproduction of rare species.
“This event must become a momentum for total improvement. Management standards can no longer be half-hearted,” he stressed.
Farhan also assured that the evaluation would not be done partially. The Bandung City Government will collaborate with the central government, provincial government, and the Forestry Ministry to carry out systemic improvements.
He further highlighted the aspect of biosecurity, which he deemed still weak, especially in the zoo’s perimeter area that serves as the primary defence line against various risks.
“We are committed to the principle of animal welfare. However, this incident shows that the biosecurity system—particularly in the outer areas—must be significantly strengthened,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the West Java Natural Resources Conservation Centre (BBKSDA), Eri Mildranaya, stated that his side is still conducting an investigation to ascertain the cause of death of the two animals.
“The complete results will be conveyed after the in-depth process is completed,” he said.
It is known that Huru and Hara are the offspring of the Bengal tiger pair Sahrulkan and Jelita, who were born on 12 July 2025 and are part of the animal collection at Bandung Zoo. Both were reported to have died within a close timeframe, on 24 and 26 March 2026.