KTP For Elephants Is A Symbol Of Conservation Of Animals And Environment In Riau

JAKARTA - Riau Province takes a unique and symbolic approach in increasing public awareness of the importance of protecting animals and their habitats.

The two elephant calf Sumatran, Domang and Tari, who now live in Tesso Nilo National Park (TNTN), are awarded the status of an honorary citizen by being given an identity card (KTP).

This step was initiated by the Riau Provincial Government as a form of respect for the existence of wildlife which plays an important role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. Riau Governor, Abdul Wahid, said that the provision of this ID card was not only symbolic but also a reminder that humans and animals live in mutually dependent relationships.

"We will give Domang and Dance ID cards, because they are also part of us. Living side by side with nature is a principle of mutualism. If we protect the environment, basically we are maintaining our own survival," he said after the commemoration of the 79th Bhayangkara Day in Pekanbaru, as quoted by ANTARA.

Domang and Tari are expected to become community collective awareness icons of the importance of protecting wildlife, especially endangered species such as Sumatran elephants. With this symbolization, the government wants to encourage the community's active involvement in protecting the forest and animals in it.

Riau Police Chief, Inspector General of Police Herry Heryyawan, also emphasized that the two elephants were a representation of the impact of habitat damage due to human activity. He said that before arriving in TNTN, Domang and Tari had to undergo difficult times due to being expelled from their natural habitat.

Domang and Dance cannot speak up, cannot complain about their fate. Therefore, we raise them as symbols of the struggle to protect forests and animals. This is not only about them, but about the future of our ecosystem," said Herry, as quoted by ANTARA.

Apart from Tesso Nilo, the Riau Regional Police have also intensified protection for other conservation areas such as Bukit Tiga Puluh National Park and Bukit Zamrud. Throughout 2025, the Riau Police have handled 25 cases of forestry violations, showing a serious commitment to environmental law enforcement.

This initiative serves as a reminder that the preservation of animals is not sufficient only by regulation, but also requires social movements and approaches that touch public awareness broadly.