BIG News from the BOS Foundation!
Posted May 6, 2025
Moving an orangutan rehabilitation center to a new location is no easy task! Yet that is exactly what Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) Foundation has done - because it is what is best for the orangutans! In the new location, the orangutans from the BOS Foundation Nyaru Menteng rehabilitation center have an expanded Forest School area, a new playground, and large night houses full of enrichment items. The Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation and Conservation Area in Central Kalimantan (Borneo) is operational yet requires further development. Still to be completed are supporting facilities such as a clinic, fruit storage, offices, and socialization enclosures. Happily, the new Forest School, which was a priority, stands ready for the students!
Reason for the Relocation
Relocating the Nyaru Menteng center marks an important step in ensuring that orangutans undergoing rehabilitation can learn and develop more effectively in one integrated area. Previously, the Nyaru Menteng rehabilitation facility was situated in an area that has now been designated as a communal urban forest. While the urban forest brings benefits to the surrounding community, this location was less than ideal for an orangutan rehabilitation center. The frequent human presence around the facility could disrupt the learning process of orangutans, who should have minimal human interaction. Therefore, a new location that is quieter and free from human disturbances was chosen to ensure the rehabilitation process adheres to the highest animal welfare standards.
Inauguration Day
The official inauguration of the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation and Conservation Area was a wonderful day. Raja Juli Antoni, the Indonesian Minister of Forestry proclaimed, "Absolutely inspiring! I am deeply moved by the dedication of individuals who tirelessly work to protect our forests and biodiversity, especially orangutans." The Head of the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) of Central Kalimantan, Persada Agussetia Sitepu, had this to add, "Orangutans are a crucial species in the Borneo forest ecosystem. Therefore, it is important for all of us—government, the public, and NGOs like BOS Foundation—to work together in the conservation of orangutans and their habitat."
With the move to the new site, the Nyaru Menteng Center now has a more conducive environment to support the development of young orangutans. A more natural setting with minimal human distractions is expected to enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation, allowing orangutans to focus on learning survival skills such as foraging, nest-building, and recognizing potential dangers in the wild. Additionally, this relocation supports long-term conservation efforts. With a more optimal rehabilitation process, orangutans that are ready for release have a greater chance of successfully surviving when they are eventually released to freedom in the forest.
Orangutans on the Move!
The first phase of the relocation was the transfer of the Forest School (which will continue to be developed to provide optimal education and skills training for the orangutans). Soon it was time to move the orangutans! Forest School students in Groups 4 and 5 made the short journey in transport cages without sedation, in BOSF vehicles. Group 5 includes Orangutan Outreach adoptees Bumi, Monita, and Monyo! Upon arrival at the new facility, they were placed directly into night enclosures. Their first Forest School session took place the following day. The orangutans from Forest School Group 3, meanwhile, were transported by bus, as they are younger and easier to handle. Included in this fun were Onyer, Iqo, and Jeni. The entire process went smoothly and safely. The orangutans have quickly adapted to their new night enclosures and have been anxiously exploring their new Forest School area.
Looking to the Future
Moving forward, it is hoped that this new rehabilitation center will serve as a place where orangutans can truly learn to become independent individuals, ready to return to their natural habitat. By supporting the new Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Rehabilitation and Conservation Area we all contribute to the sustainability of orangutan populations and the preservation of the tropical forests they call home.
Dr.Jamartin Sihite, the Chairman of BOS Foundation, concluded, "The orangutan rehabilitation process at the Forest School is a long journey that requires high dedication and significant financial resources. We sincerely hope that the public and various parties will provide support, both morally and materially, so that we can continue to carry out this mission. Every step in this rehabilitation process is crucial for the survival of the orangutans we rescue. With the new and better facilities, we hope to speed up the rehabilitation process and soon return them to their natural habitat, where they can fulfill their role in nature."
Orangutan Outreach is proud to have supported the BOS Foundation in getting to this momentous occasion! We have made a commitment of ongoing support for the Nyaru Menteng Center and we appreciate all of you who will join our efforts to provide the best rehabilitation experience for the orangutans.