IUCN says Inpres 8/2026 strengthens elephant protection in Indonesia
The Asian elephant specialist group says the rule provides a basis for cross-sector cooperation to speed up protection of elephant populations.
IUCN sees Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2026 as strengthening protection for elephants in Indonesia and as an important foundation for conservation efforts. Heidi Riddle, chair of the IUCN SSC Asian Elephant Specialist Group, said the rule shows the government's commitment to building a cross-sector approach, because elephant habitat crosses administrative borders and intersects with spatial planning, infrastructure, plantations, agriculture and local governments. She said the whole-of-government approach reflected in the instruction is an important step for the survival of elephant populations. Heidi also expressed appreciation to Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni and said the group is ready to support the Indonesian government by sharing experience, scientific knowledge and expertise from Asian elephant range countries.