We have some absolutely wonderful news to share coming from the Jantho Orangutan Reintroduction Center in Sumatra. A baby has been born in the wild to Bulan, a rehabilitated orangutan who was released into the forest in 2018 by the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme (SOCP).

Bulan was rescued from the illegal wildlife trade in Aceh more than ten years ago. She was just a young orangutan, separated from the life she should have had. After years of care, she was released back into the wild, and now, Bulan has become a mother. This is what we hope to see!

“From being a victim of the illegal wildlife trade to becoming a mother in the wild, Bulan’s journey demonstrates the long-term value of orangutan rehabilitation and reintroduction,” said M. Yakob Ishadamy, Conservation Director of Yayasan Ekosistem Lestari (YEL). “However, achievements such as this can only continue if the forests orangutans depend on remain protected.”

On June 8 2026, SOCP confirmed the birth of a healthy male infant to Bulan, a rehabilitated female Sumatran orangutan released into the Jantho Nature Reserve in Aceh, Indonesia, in 2018. The birth had been confirmed on May 22, 2026 when SOCP post-release monitoring teams observed Bulan carrying her infant through the forest canopy.

“During our observation, Bulan appeared active and highly protective of her infant. The baby appeared healthy and remained in close contact with its mother throughout the observation period,” said Hafiz, Manager of the Jantho Orangutan Reintroduction Centre.

Successful reproduction in the wild is one of the strongest indicators that rehabilitated orangutans have adapted to their natural environment and are contributing to the recovery of wild populations.

Bulan’s baby boy was named Badar by Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni. The name means “full moon” in Indonesian, a sign of good fortune reflecting hope for the future of one of the worlds most threatened great apes. This new bundle of joy appeared to be about one month old. The mother/child pair was recently spotted healthy and safe in the forest — a powerful reminder of why rescue, rehabilitation and forest protection matter. Badar’s presence symbolizes new hope for the preservation of Sumatran orangutans in their natural habitat.

Date Posted: June 16, 2026
Text by SOCP and Orangutan Outreach

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