Indonesian Residents Voluntarily Hand Over Protected Langur to Forestry Ministry

A Javan langur, affectionately known as Momon, has been voluntarily surrendered to Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry by residents of Bondowoso, East Java. This act highlights a successful persuasive approach to engage the community in the protection of endangered wildlife.

The rescue of Momon was initiated by the East Java Natural Resources Conservation Center (BBKSDA) following a report from the Bondowoso District Livestock and Fisheries Service. The langur underwent health examinations and rehabilitation.

According to Ristianto Pribadi, head of the Ministry of Forestry's Public Relations and International Cooperation Bureau, Momon's successful rescue demonstrates the critical role of public participation in wildlife protection. "The success of Momon's evacuation also shows the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in wildlife protection," he stated.

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The success of Momon's evacuation also shows the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in wildlife protection.

The operation began when veterinary paramedics from the Bondowoso District Livestock and Fisheries Service discovered the langur tied up during a livestock census. They reported the finding to a local veterinarian, who then alerted BBKSDA East Java. BBKSDA officials coordinated with local authorities and the village government to approach the langur's caretakers. After receiving an explanation about the protected status of the Javan langur, the residents willingly handed over Momon.

The caretakers found Momon as an infant in the Selapak coffee plantation area about three to four years ago. They brought the animal home and cared for it without knowing the proper procedures for handling protected wildlife. Following its evacuation, Momon received an initial physical examination and is now under the care of the Jember Mini Zoo, where it will undergo behavioral observation, comprehensive health checks, and rehabilitation. The findings will guide future conservation efforts, prioritizing the animal's welfare.

Ristianto further explained that the Javan langur is an endemic primate of Java, classified as a protected species, and is crucial for maintaining ecosystem balance. These primates aid in dispersing seeds, supporting forest vegetation regeneration. The Ministry of Forestry urges the public not to capture, keep, trade, or possess protected wildlife. "If protected wildlife is found, the public is urged to immediately report it to the nearest BBKSDA or forestry official for proper handling," he advised.

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If protected wildlife is found, the public is urged to immediately report it to the nearest BBKSDA or forestry official for proper handling.