Indonesia drafts presidential order to protect Sumatran elephants

hartono · Mar 5, 2026

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An aerial photo shows a herd of wild Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) crossing the concession area of PT Lestari Asri Jaya (LAJ) in the Bukit Tigapuluh landscape, Semambu Village, Tebo District, Jambi Province, Friday (Jan. 23, 2026).” (ANTARA FOTO/WAHDI SEPTIAWAN)

Pekanbaru, Riau (ANTARA) - Indonesia is preparing a presidential instruction to safeguard the endangered Sumatran elephant, as shrinking and fragmented habitats threaten the species’ survival, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said during a visit to Pekanbaru on Thursday.

Antoni noted that elephant habitat pockets in Sumatra have drastically declined—from 44 previously to just 11 by late 2024—largely due to illegal forest practices that isolate populations.

“The policy will focus on reconnecting fragmented corridors for Sumatran elephants. Restoring these corridors is crucial to maintaining ecological balance and ensuring the sustainability of the population,” he said.

The minister stressed that the Sumatran elephant population, estimated at around 1,200 individuals across Aceh and Lampung, remains endangered. He also warned that ivory poaching continues to pose serious risks.

“We need to remind the public that elephants are classified as endangered. Illegal poaching for ivory must be continuously monitored,” Antoni said, praising police efforts in tackling wildlife crimes.

He commended the Riau Regional Police for recent enforcement actions.

“We hope this will be the last incident. The state will take firm action against perpetrators to protect wildlife,” he said.