Indonesia protects orangutans Near East Kutai road
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Indonesia’s Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) in East Kalimantan province increased its efforts to protect orangutans near a production road in East Kutai.
Starting in July 2026, BKSDA collaborated with the Centre for Orangutan Protection (COP) and PT SHJ, a company operating in the area, to locate and assist the primates. Teams searched for the orangutans after initial sightings in July and again in late August, gathering information from people using the road and monitoring the area with drones.
Officials believe the orangutans are venturing closer to the road due to a drought that has dried up streams within the forest, forcing them to search for water and food elsewhere. In response, BKSDA installed warning signs and requested PT SHJ place water tanks along the orangutans’ travel routes. BKSDA also asked the public and drivers to avoid approaching, feeding, or disturbing the orangutans to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of both people and the endangered animals.
The agency plans to continue coordinating with PT SHJ and monitoring orangutan populations in East Kalimantan to promote peaceful coexistence.
