Wakapolda Kaltara Tinjau Mangrove Conservation, Habitat Bekantan In Tarakan

TARAKAN - Deputy Chief of the North Kalimantan Regional Police (Wakapolda), Brigadier General Pol. Golkar Pangarso Rahardjo Winarsadi, SH, SIK, MH, together with Dirpamobvit Polda North Kalimantan, Kombes Pol. Joko Bintoro, SH, SIK, Tarakan Police Chief, AKBP Adi Saptia Sudirna, and West Tarakan Police Chief, IPTU Sri Djayanti Madogo, S.Tr.K., visited the location of mangrove and defender conservation in Tarakan, North Kalimantan (Kaltara) on Sunday, August 4. This visit aims to review efforts to preserve the mangrove ecosystem and protection of defenders (Nasalis larvatus), the endangered Kalimantan endemic primate.

Brigadier General Pol. Golkar Pangarso Rahardjo Winarsadi explained that mangrove forests in Tarakan have a vital role in maintaining the balance of coastal ecosystems. Mangroves function to protect the coastline from erosion, storms, and tsunamis, as well as provide habitat for various species of fish, birds, and other animals. In addition, mangroves help maintain water quality by screening pollutants and maintaining the balance of the water ecosystem.

"Mangrove conservation is very important to ensure the sustainability of coastal ecosystems and biodiversity in Tarakan. We will continue to support this conservation effort through various programs and cooperation with various parties," said Brigadier General Pol. Golkar Pangarso Rahardjo Winarsadi at the mangrove conservation site, Tarakan, Kaltara.

Bekantan, which is an endemic primate in Kalimantan, relies heavily on mangrove forests for their survival. Their species became the main focus in the conservation program in Tarakan.

Animals that are also icons of Ancol Dreamland Park Jakarta are rare protected species. Conservation efforts carried out include habitat protection, rehabilitation of mangrove forests, research and monitoring of the cannabis population, as well as education and increased public awareness.

"Through cooperation with various parties, including the government, NGOs, academics, and the local community, we are trying to maintain and increase the population of the nation. Education to the public is also very important to raise awareness of the importance of the preservation of the nation," added Brigadier General Pol. Golkar Pangarso Rahardjo Winarsadi.

Mangrove and bekantan conservation efforts in Tarakan face various challenges, including conversion of mangrove land for agriculture and development, poaching for grants, as well as pollution from industrial and household activities. However, various initiatives have been taken to overcome these challenges, such as the establishment of conservation areas, mangrove rehabilitation projects, and wildlife protection campaigns.

"Collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the community is very much needed to overcome these conservation challenges. With ongoing efforts and solid cooperation, we are optimistic that mangrove and cannabis conservation in Tarakan will be successful," concluded Brigadier General Pol. Golkar Pangarso Rahardjo Winarsadi.