Puti Malabin Returns To The Wild, KLHK Releases Wild Sumatran Tigers In Rimbang Baling!

"Putin" returns to the wild in Rimbang Baling, (photo: dock. between)

PADANG - The Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) released a Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae) named "Puti Malabin" in Rimbang Baling, West Sumatra, on Friday, June 28.

In a statement received in Jakarta, Saturday, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry through the West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Center (KSDA) together with the Riau KSDA Center succeeded in releasing Puti Malabin after previously being evacuated due to negative interaction with the community in Pasaman Regency, West Sumatra.

The head of the West Sumatra KSDA Center, Lugi Hartanto, revealed that Puti Malabin was evacuated on February 4, 2024 using a trap cage installed in Nagari Binjai. After the evacuation, the tiger was observed at the Kinantan Cultural Wildlife Park (TMSBK) Bukittinggi.

"Balai KSDA West Sumatra has conducted a study of the release location with COP and the SINTAS INDONESIA Foundation. The study stages include rapid assessment of release locations, ground check for habitat suitability of origin, inventory of feed availability, survey of support power and capacity of the Sumatran tiger population, as well as potential threats and disturbances through snare sweep operations," said Lugi.

From the results of the study, the Rimbang Baling landscape was designated as a location that met the criteria for release.

The release process is carried out using air transportation supported by the Riau Air Force and the West Sumatra Air Force. Lugi expressed his appreciation to all parties involved in the release process.

Lugi ensured that the Joint Team of the West Sumatra KSDA Center, COP, and the SINTAS Foundation would carry out post-release surveillance for the next month to ensure Puti Malabin's adaptation in its natural habitat.

With this release, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry hopes to continue to preserve the Sumatran tiger and support this endangered species conservation effort.