West Java DPRD Highlights Bandung Zoo Management After Death of Two Tiger Cubs

Bandung (ANTARA) - The Deputy Chairman of the West Java DPRD, Ono Surono, has highlighted the management issues at Bandung Zoo following the death of two eight-month-old Bengal tiger cubs named Huru and Hara. Ono assessed the incident as more than a mere accident, but rather a result of long-standing management conflicts. He also pointed out the continued involvement of the old foundation in managing Bandung Zoo, despite its permit having been revoked by the Ministry of Forestry. Ono stated that this is suspected to be one of the factors contributing to the death of the two Bengal tiger cubs. He opined that the Bandung City Government should have anticipated the situation from the outset by ensuring animal welfare, including health and feeding aspects. He also criticised the relevant ministries, which he deemed not yet optimal in carrying out their supervisory functions and ensuring that maintenance standards are met. Ono revealed that he had once offered cooperation with Ragunan Zoo and Surabaya Zoo for animal handling, but received no serious response from Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan. He urged all parties, including local government, ministries, and managers, to immediately coordinate to improve the quality of animal care. “Food standards, cage cleanliness, and health examinations must be carried out as best as possible so that no more deaths of other rare animals occur,” he said. Huru and Hara were known to be Bengal tiger cubs born on 12 July 2025 from the parent pair Shah Rukh Khan and Jelita, and were introduced to the public in September 2025.