DPR Member Surprised by Plans to Relocate Javan Rhinos from Ujung Kulon: Better to Preserve the Ecosystem

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Deputy Chair of Commission IV of the House of Representatives, Alex Indra Lukman, stated that it would be better for the government to focus on preserving the ecosystem of the Javan rhinoceros rather than relocating them to another place.

Alex reminded that the rhinos in Ujung Kulon had previously weathered the eruption of Mount Krakatau.

"The Javan rhino has already experienced the eruption of Mount Krakatau in 1883; wouldn’t it be better to maintain the ecosystem by researching how these ancient rhinos could survive?" Alex told Kompas.com on Sunday (15/11/2026).

He explained that even if they were relocated, there's no guarantee that the new location would be suitable for the Javan rhinos’ habitat.

"Instead of relocating to a site that may not suit their habitat, it’s better to base decisions on research," he added.

Previously, the government planned to move several Javan rhinos from Ujung Kulon National Park in Banten to Alas Purwo National Park in East Java.

Special Presidential Envoy for Climate and Energy, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, stated that the plan was developed to ensure the survival of the Javan rhino population from tsunami threats posed by eruptions of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait.

"Due to new issues with Mount Anak Krakatau, that area is at risk. If a tsunami occurs from an earthquake or volcanic eruption, our Javan rhinos could face extinction. Hence, there is a proposal to relocate several Javan rhinos to Alas Purwo," Hashim said during a meeting at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey, on Thursday (12/11/2026).

Hashim emphasized that the relocation of the Javan rhinos to Alas Purwo is still a proposal.

The government needs to assess habitat suitability, the health status of the animals, and the readiness of the target area before implementing the relocation plan.

Moreover, relocating animals from Banten to East Java requires substantial funding.

For this reason, the government is opening opportunities for international organizations and donors to support the development of new habitats.

Hashim mentioned that one of the funding options being considered is through a forest financing scheme under the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF).

According to him, several international parties have expressed interest in supporting the plan.

"In the future, there may be international organizations, donors, and others who wish to provide funding. It’s necessary to have funds. If they are interested, some may want to finance the establishment of a new site in Alas Purwo," he stated.