- Vigilant patrolling spanning 385.8 kilometers led to the discovery of nine signs of Sumatran tigers and alarming threats like active animal snares, illegal logging, and unauthorized land clearing, emphasizing the urgency of habitat protection.
- Lingkar engaged with Indonesia’s Islamic Scholars Council, conducting impactful socialisation activities in key villages, and educating 219 participants about the prohibition of hunting protected wildlife.
- Lingkar initiated empowerment programs for ex-hunters and formed the “JAGO IMAU” Conservation Partnership Group, marking significant strides towards sustainable wildlife protection in collaboration with the Kerinci Seblat National Park Authority.
As part of our ongoing efforts to protect endangered wild tigers and Amur leopards, we’re excited to share an update on the remarkable strides made by our implementing partner, Lingkar Inisiatif in Sumatra, Indonesia, during the initial half of 2023.
Project name: Protecting the Sumatran tiger in Bengkulu area of Kerinci Seblat National Park
Location: Kerinci Seblat National Park, Sumatra Indonesia
Goal: To reduce the poaching threat to Sumatran tiger in the National Park and adjacent forests by building strong practical collaborations between local and national government, religious leaders, educators and forest-edge communities.
Collaboration and Outreach Efforts
Lingkar has maintained a strong collaboration with the Indonesia Islamic Scholars Council (MUI), conducting insightful outreach activities in key villages. Their dedication resulted in three socialisation events, enlightening 219 participants across Renah Jaya, Sumber Mulya, and Kurotidur villages regarding the prohibition of hunting protected wildlife.
Fieldwork Insights: Vigilant Patrolling and Unveiling Threats
The dedicated Lingkar Patrol Team traversed an impressive 385.8 kilometers during 10 patrols, uncovering nine signs of the Sumatran tiger’s presence. These patrols unveiled alarming threats like active animal snares, illegal logging, mining, and unauthorised plantation clearing, underscoring the urgency to safeguard these habitats.
Wildlife Crime Investigations and Counselling Efforts
The Lingkar investigation team diligently pursued leads, discovering information on Sumatran tiger hunting activities. Consistent counseling sessions with ex-hunters exhibited positive progress, mitigating poaching incidents. Challenges remain, especially regarding supporting these individuals’ transition to alternative livelihoods.
Empowerment Initiatives and Strategic Partnerships
Recognising the economic challenges faced by ex-hunters post-hunting cessation, Lingkar initiated empowerment programs in collaboration with the Kerinci Seblat National Park Authority. The establishment of the “JAGO IMAU” Conservation Partnership Group, comprising reformed hunters turned wildlife protectors, signifies a pivotal step towards sustainable conservation.
This mid-year update showcases Lingkar Inisiatif Indonesia’s unwavering commitment and exceptional progress in conserving Indonesia’s natural heritage, particularly the Sumatran tigers. Stay tuned for further updates as we continue this vital conservation journey together.