West Java Provincial Government Settles Bandung Zoo Employees' Salaries, DPRD Gives Appreciation
Member of Commission V of the West Java DPRD, Andhika Surya Gumilar, has appreciated the West Java Provincial Government’s (Pemprov Jabar) efforts in resolving the payment of salaries for Bandung Zoo employees, which had previously been delayed.
According to Andhika, this policy represents the state’s presence in addressing employment issues, particularly those concerning workers’ basic rights. He assessed that resolving the salary arrears not only impacts employee welfare but also maintains the operational stability of the conservation institution.
“The West Java Provincial Government’s step deserves appreciation because it concerns workers’ rights that must be prioritised. Salaries are a primary need for employees and their families,” said Andhika on Wednesday (8/4/2026).
He added that the issues at Bandung Zoo should serve as an important lesson. In his view, animals should not become victims amid the turmoil of dual management.
Andhika believes that local government intervention in this situation is a strategic step to maintain public trust. Moreover, Bandung Zoo is one of Bandung City’s tourism icons with historical and educational value for the community.
“When the government steps in to resolve this issue, public trust will increase. This is important so that Bandung Zoo remains a proud educational and conservation destination for West Java,” he stated.
In addition, he urged comprehensive improvements, both in management, workforce welfare, and animal care standards. According to him, the sustainability of the conservation institution is not only determined by business aspects but also by commitment to animal and worker welfare.
“Going forward, there must be a thorough evaluation, including stricter oversight. Salary arrears must not recur, as this concerns humanity and management professionalism,” he said.
With the salary payments resolved, Andhika hopes that Bandung Zoo’s operations can return to normal and provide positive contributions to the tourism sector and environmental education in West Java. He is optimistic that, with collaboration between the government and management, Bandung Zoo can rise and improve in the future.
Previously, West Java Governor Kang Dedi Mulyadi (KDM) directly witnessed the payment of salaries for Bandung Zoo employees by the Provincial Government.
The Bandung Zoo employees had not received two months’ wages from the Margasatwa Tamansari Foundation.
“I apologise for not keeping my promise. Initially, I promised to pay one month’s wages, but now I pay two months. How about that, happy or not,” said KDM in front of the Bandung Zoo employees on Friday (3/4/2026).