Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has pledged 20,000 hectares of his own land in Sumatra for the conservation of critically endangered Sumatran elephants. This commitment was announced during his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, where he met King Charles III and representatives from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
According to Hasan Nasbi, Head of the Presidential Communications Office, the pledge exceeds WWF’s initial request for 10,000 hectares in Aceh. “President Prabowo decided to double the area to 20,000 hectares, which will be managed by WWF to ensure the conservation of Sumatran elephants,” Nasbi said in a statement released on December 3, 2024.
A Lifeline for Sumatran Elephants
Sumatran elephants, a subspecies of the Asian elephant, face severe threats from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. Deforestation and agricultural expansion have drastically reduced their natural habitats, leaving these gentle giants critically endangered. Prabowo’s commitment aims to create a sanctuary where elephants can thrive, contributing to broader efforts to preserve Indonesia’s rich biodiversity.
This initiative is part of Indonesia’s strategy to balance economic development with environmental stewardship. By protecting these habitats, Indonesia not only safeguards its wildlife but also strengthens its global reputation as a leader in conservation.
Broader Diplomatic and Economic Gains
President Prabowo’s conservation pledge was just one highlight of his successful state visit to the UK. During the trip, he secured $8.5 billion in investment commitments from British companies. The investments will target key sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, education, and healthcare, reinforcing Indonesia’s development goals.
The deals were formalized at a CEO Roundtable Forum in London, showcasing Indonesia’s potential as a critical player in the global economy. This comes as part of Prabowo’s broader diplomatic tour, which also included visits to China, the United States, Peru, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates.
Leading by Example
Prabowo’s pledge of personal land for conservation underscores his commitment to environmental causes, setting an example for other leaders. As a prominent political figure and businessman, his actions highlight the importance of individual responsibility in addressing global challenges like biodiversity loss.
His decision to exceed WWF’s request demonstrates Indonesia’s willingness to go above and beyond in addressing global conservation issues. It also sends a strong message to international communities about Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable development and wildlife protection.
North Sumatra Declares Disaster Emergency in 13 Regions Following Floods and Landslides
A Vision for Sustainability
In addition to its immediate benefits for the Sumatran elephant population, this initiative symbolizes a shift towards more sustainable practices in Indonesia. With global biodiversity under increasing threat, actions like these are crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
President Prabowo’s leadership offers a model for integrating conservation into broader national and global agendas. His efforts reflect a commitment to preserving natural heritage for future generations while fostering economic growth.
For American audiences, this story illustrates how international leaders can address environmental challenges through bold and innovative approaches. As climate and biodiversity crises remain global concerns, Prabowo’s actions provide a roadmap for combining conservation with economic diplomacy.
(Becky)
