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Merauke, September 10, 2024 – The Papua Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) and PT Bio Inti Agrindo (PT BIA) have successfully conducted a wildlife release at the Lake Bian Wildlife Reserve in Merauke, South Papua. This event underscores the strong commitment of both parties to the conservation of Papua's wildlife.
The released wildlife includes several iconic Papuan species, such as the Irian Crocodile (Crocodylus novaeguineae), Black-capped Lory (Lorius lory), Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita), Carpet Python (Simalia amethistina), and the "Black Papua" Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus). These animals are the result of wildlife law enforcement actions by BBKSDA Papua, in collaboration with the South Papua Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Office, and various other agencies in Merauke Regency.
Several of these animals underwent rehabilitation in Merauke before being released back into their natural habitat at Danau Bian. Previously cared for and rehabilitated, these animals are now ready to resume their lives in the wild.

Commitment to Conservation
This release is part of ongoing efforts to protect and preserve biodiversity within the Danau Bian Wildlife Sanctuary. Y. Agung Widya, Head of the Conservation and Natural Resources Office Region I Merauke, expressed hopes that the ongoing collaboration will continue to enhance efforts to ensure the preservation of wildlife in Papua, especially those protected by law.
Resit Sözer, Program Manager of the Environmental Conservation & Community Development Program (ECCDP) at PT BIA, emphasized that this release is not only about released wildlife to their habitats but also about PT BIA’s and BBKSDA’s commitment to environmental preservation and the protection of endangered species.
The event was also attended by PT BIA Director Mr. Park Chan Hyo, along with management teams from PT BIA and POSCO International, representatives from the South Papua Quarantine Office, GAKKUM Maluku Papua, The Merauke Regency Civil Service Police Unit and Fire Department, and local community members who provided their support.

Role of the Community and Collaboration
Active community participation is crucial for the success of conservation programs. Following the establishment of community partner patrols (MMP), fire-aware communities (MPA), and a series of socialization efforts in both core and buffer zone villages, it is hoped that this will increase public awareness and support for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring that wildlife habitats remain protected.

Next Steps
Regular SMART Patrols will be conducted with MMP and MPA communities to mitigate threats from fire and poaching. Additionally, PT BIA will build rehabilitation facilities and transit enclosures tailored to the needs of BBKSDA Papua to handle wildlife rescued from illegal activities.