Bandung Zoo's Fate: 700 Animals Await Certainty Behind Closed Gates

The closure of Bandung Zoo since August 6, 2025, still leaves major unanswered questions. Behind closed fences and visitor-free areas, hundreds of animals now await certainty about their fate.

The Chairman of the Taman Sari Wildlife Foundation (YMT), John Sumampauw, has asked Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan to immediately provide clarity regarding the future of this legendary zoo.

"Yes, provide a firm decision as soon as possible whether it will continue as a zoo or not. Immediately provide certainty on the direction of this policy," said John in Bandung on Sunday, October 11, 2025.

According to him, the closure, which has lasted for over two months, has significantly impacted the survival of more than 700 animals and the zoo's daily operational activities.

"These animals are currently being cared for without certainty about who is responsible for what. It's chaotic right now, and this situation could lead to conflicts later," he stated.

Impact of Closure on Animals, SMEs, and Management

Besides the animal welfare concerns, the closure of Bandung Zoo has also caused economic losses for many parties. Several partners, such as online ticket providers, tourist electric vehicle operators, and dozens of SME kiosks selling within the zoo area, have also been affected.

"There are definitely many losses. Because we have several contracts with other parties. Like the electric vehicles, we didn't buy them, it's a partnership. There are also several restaurants inside, which are certainly impacted too," said John.

For Bandung residents and tourists who enjoy nature holidays or family outings, this closure is certainly regrettable news. Bandung Zoo is not just a recreation spot, but also an educational space about wildlife and environmental conservation with its own historical value in the Flower City.

John hopes that the Bandung City Government will immediately take concrete steps to reopen this zoo to save the animals and protect the livelihoods of workers who depend on it.

"If animals end up dying, who will be responsible? Especially since some animals are on loan or entrusted to us," he emphasized.

Problem Not Due to Internal Conflict

John also clarified public assumptions that Bandung Zoo's problems stemmed from internal conflicts within the foundation. According to him, the real issues arose because of certain individuals who disobeyed the law and regional government administrative regulations.

"It's not an actual conflict that occurred, but rather that there are individuals within the foundation who continuously defy law enforcement and obstruct legitimate administrative processes," he explained.

He affirmed that the Taman Sari Wildlife Foundation remains committed to complying with all regulations and is ready to cooperate with the Bandung City Government and the Ministry of Forestry to ensure the zoo's management operates legally and transparently.

"We strive to run Bandung Zoo's operations transparently and within the legal framework, aiming to maximize the zoo's function as a space for education, conservation, and recreation that the community can be proud of," said John.

Bandung Zoo: A Tourism Icon Needing Rescue

For many young travelers, Bandung Zoo is more than just a place to see animals. This site is a historic green space in the heart of the city that combines education, entertainment, and nostalgia. From school children learning about fauna, to out-of-town tourists seeking fresh air, this zoo holds a special place in the hearts of many.

With its status still unclear, great hope now rests on the government and relevant parties so that Bandung Zoo can soon reopen in a better-organized, more environmentally friendly manner, and remain an icon for family tourism and wildlife education in Bandung. (Antara)