A rare animal rescue operation took place in Cipetir Tengah Hamlet, Sukamaju Village, Sukabumi Regency. Local residents successfully secured a Javan slow loris (Nycticebus javanicus) found crawling on an orange tree near a residential area.
Public awareness regarding environmental conservation was clearly evident as residents chose to immediately report the sighting to authorities instead of capturing or keeping the animal as a pet. The report was relayed through the Forest Farmers Group (KTH) and volunteers, leading to a swift response from Situgunung PTN Resort officers from the Mount Gede Pangrango National Park Authority (BBTNGGP).
Agus Deni, Public Relations officer for BBTNGGP, expressed deep appreciation to the residents of Sukamaju Village for their active participation in protecting the legally protected primate. According to him, the community's quick response is key to successfully safeguarding the forest ecosystem from the threat of extinction.
After being handed over to officers, the animal underwent a comprehensive medical examination. Observation results showed that the slow loris was in prime condition and retained its wild instincts. Given its healthy state, the park authority decided to immediately release the primate back into its natural habitat in the Mount Gede Pangrango National Park area on the same day to minimize stress levels.
This incident sets a positive precedent for collaboration between the public and national park authorities. BBTNGGP continues to encourage public involvement in reporting wildlife sightings as a crucial step toward curtailing illegal poaching and maintaining biodiversity balance in West Java.
