West Java Governor Opens Option for Provincial BUMD to Manage Bandung Zoo

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has signaled a potential shift in the management of the beloved Bandung Zoo. With the city government's ongoing auction process for a new operator facing delays, the provincial administration, through its Regional-Owned Enterprise (BUMD), stands ready to step in. This move underscores a commitment to ensuring the zoo's continuity and preserving its valuable natural assets.

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Based on the report from the West Java Forestry Service yesterday, they said a decision could not be made yet due to various considerations, including legal ones.

Governor Mulyadi emphasized that the provincial government's interest in managing the zoo is purely altruistic. The objective is not commercial gain but rather the safeguarding of the zoo's employees and the vital conservation efforts it undertakes. The governor highlighted the zoo's excellent condition, noting its well-maintained grounds and mature trees, which make it a significant ecological asset.

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The province, through BUMD, will apply to manage the zoo not for business purposes, but to save employees and for conservation. Because it is a very good area, well-organized, and the forests are relatively good, the trees are still large.

Meanwhile, the Bandung City government, through the Acting Head of the Bandung City Financial and Asset Management Agency (BKAD), Gun Gun Sumaryana, has assured the public that the zoo's operations remain secure. Even with the expiration of the previous management agreement, collaborative efforts between the central, provincial, and city governments ensure the welfare of the animals and the stability of the workforce. Animal feed and healthcare are reported to be adequate, with enrichment programs in place to maintain the animals' natural instincts.

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Even though the MoU has ended, the government remains present. All parties remain united in managing this zoo.

The city administration is currently extending the auction period by one month, acknowledging the stringent requirements that have posed challenges for potential bidders. Mayor Muhammad Farhan noted that while 85 potential institutions were invited, only a handful have shown concrete interest. This cautious approach to selecting a new operator reflects a desire for a partner committed to the zoo's long-term success and its role in conservation and education.

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Enrichment is important to maintain the animals' instincts. So it's not just enough, but also of high quality.