en.malanginspirasi.com – The Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut), through the East Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), in collaboration with the Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) Foundation and several partners, released four rehabilitated orangutans into the Kehje Sewen Forest, East Kalimantan, on Thursday (November 5, 2026).
The four orangutans—Catherine, Dennis, Ames, and Marlon—came from the Samboja Lestari Orangutan Rehabilitation Center.
This release marks a significant step in returning them to their natural habitat, allowing them to begin a life in the wild following their rehabilitation process.
Head of the East Kalimantan BKSDA, M. Ari Wibawanto, stated that such releases are a vital component of conservation efforts aimed at returning wildlife to their natural habitats.
The process requires thorough preparation, ranging from ensuring the readiness of each individual animal to assessing the conditions of the target habitat.
“We hope that the released orangutans will adapt well and live naturally in the Kehje Sewen Forest. These efforts must be accompanied by ongoing habitat protection to ensure the orangutans have the best chance to survive and thrive in the wild,” said M. Ari in a statement from East Kalimantan on Friday (November 6, 2026).
The Kehje Sewen Forest, located across the East Kutai and Kutai Kartanegara regencies, serves as the destination habitat for these four orangutans.
Protecting this forest area is crucial for supporting their successful adaptation and long-term survival in the wild.
This release also coincides with the 35th anniversary of the BOS Foundation’s work in rescuing protected wildlife. Jamartin Sihite, Chairman of the BOS Foundation, noted that every release serves as a reminder that conservation requires consistency, patience, and collaboration among various stakeholders.
According to him, every orangutan’s rehabilitation journey is unique.
Behind the successful return of these animals to the wild lies a long process—encompassing rescue, care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support—that can span many years.
“Our work does not end when they leave the rehabilitation center. We must also ensure that the forests they call home remain protected,” he said.
The Ministry of Forestry expressed its appreciation for the support provided by the East Kalimantan Provincial Government, the regency governments of East Kutai and Kutai Kartanegara, and the local community in these efforts.
Recognition was also extended to the BOS Foundation and all partners who have contributed to orangutan conservation initiatives.
