West Java DPRD: Animal Rescue at Bandung Zoo Becomes Top Priority

Bandung (ANTARA) - The Deputy Chairman of the West Java DPRD, Ono Surono, has stressed that animal rescue must be the top priority amid the problems occurring in the management of Bandung Zoo. Ono is urging the local government to promptly take concrete steps following the deaths of two two-month-old Bengal tiger cubs named Huru and Hara. “We all must ensure that the animals at Bandung Zoo receive proper care,” said Ono in Bandung on Monday. According to Ono, from the outset, his side has proposed relocating the animals to other zoos, such as Ragunan or Surabaya, to guarantee the animals’ safety. However, he noted that communication among regional leaders has not been followed by concrete actions on the ground. “The deaths of these two tiger cubs are not just ordinary incidents, but were predicted long ago due to the prolonged management conflicts at Bandung Zoo and the lack of concern from both central and local governments,” he said. He added that although feed has now been prepared by the ministry, the frequently delayed payment process has disrupted field operations. “If the government is not ready, we are also ready to help,” he said. Ono assessed that since the takeover by the central government, Bandung Zoo’s operations have not shown significant improvements, including the absence of coordination and clear operational standards. He also highlighted the fate of hundreds of employees who continue to work amid uncertainty about their status and income. “This is a matter of humanity and welfare. The government must be present so that employees can work peacefully,” he stated.