Ministry Revokes Bandung Zoo Management Permit

Jakarta – The Bandung Zoo’s conservation permit has been officially revoked by Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, effective Thursday, February 5, 2026. The decision targets the Tamansari Wildlife Foundation (YMT), the zoo’s current management and aims to prioritize the welfare of the animals housed within.

Zoo Permit Revoked to Protect Animals

According to Satyawan Pudiyatmoko, Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation, the revocation is a necessary step to prevent animals from suffering due to ongoing administrative issues. “The state cannot allow animals to fall victim to administrative disputes,” Pudiyatmoko stated. The Ministry of Forestry will assume full responsibility for the care and rescue of all animals for up to three months.

Securing a Regional Asset

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan emphasized the city government’s commitment to securing the zoo grounds, which are owned by the city and designated as public green open space. He stated the state has an obligation to intervene to preserve this asset and protect the animals. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Mayor of Bandung and the Ministry’s Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation to formalize the transition.

Did You Know? The Bandung Zoo grounds are designated as a public green open space with a protective function.

The Ministry of Forestry will have sole authority regarding the wildlife, ensuring they remain safe and cared for during the transition. Zoo staff will continue their duties under the Bandung City Government, with basic maintenance like electricity and sanitation remaining a priority.

Future Management and Transition

The city government intends to establish a temporary management team to care for the animals while a new, professional manager is appointed. Future management will prioritize education, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation. The Bandung City Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) secured the premises by sealing the area on Thursday.

Expert Insight: The revocation of the permit and the subsequent joint management plan represent a significant intervention by the state to safeguard both animal welfare and a valuable public asset amidst internal conflicts. This approach aims to stabilize the situation and ensure continuity of care while a long-term solution is developed.

The zoo had been previously closed due to long-standing internal management conflicts between two groups within the Tamansari Wildlife Foundation. Prior to the closure, the zoo briefly operated with free public access.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the revocation of the Bandung Zoo’s permit?

The permit of the Tamansari Wildlife Foundation was revoked to ensure the protection and welfare of the animals at Bandung Zoo, due to ongoing administrative disputes and internal conflicts.

Who will be responsible for the animals during the transition period?

The Ministry of Forestry will assume full responsibility for the care and rescue of all animals for a maximum of three months, until a new, professional manager is appointed.

What is the Bandung City Government’s role in this process?

The Bandung City Government is working to secure the zoo grounds, which are city-owned land, and will collaborate with the Ministry of Forestry and the West Java Forestry Office to manage the zoo’s operations during the transition.

As the Bandung Zoo undergoes this significant change, what role do you believe local communities should play in ensuring its future success?