Enviro News Asia, Shizuoka– The Government of Indonesia and the Shizuoka Prefectural Government of Japan have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in wildlife protection and conservation, with a focus on a breeding loan program for the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis).
The MoU was signed by Raja Juli Antoni and Yasutomo Suzuki, marking a significant milestone in bilateral collaboration on biodiversity conservation.
The agreement reinforces Indonesia’s conservation diplomacy at the global level and promotes joint efforts to protect endangered species through collaborative approaches between conservation institutions from both countries.
The partnership aims to strengthen diplomatic ties between Indonesia and Japan, while enhancing contributions to wildlife conservation and raising public awareness of biodiversity.
Both parties emphasized their commitment to animal welfare principles and adherence to international regulations, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
In his remarks, Minister Raja Juli Antoni stated that the cooperation goes beyond animal exchange, representing part of Indonesia’s long-term Green Diplomacy commitment to safeguarding global biodiversity heritage.
The breeding loan program is also expected to play a strategic role in strengthening public education and increasing international awareness of conservation issues.
Implementation of the agreement will involve technical arrangements between iZoo and Surabaya Zoo, including animal care, transportation, and monitoring protocols.
The Ministry of Forestry emphasized that the program will be carried out carefully, transparently, and in full compliance with national regulations and international standards.
This initiative highlights Indonesia’s active role in global biodiversity leadership while strengthening environmental diplomacy as part of its contribution to sustainable development.
The MoU signing forms part of the state visit of Prabowo Subianto to Japan, during which he also met with Naruhito and Sanae Takaichi to further enhance bilateral relations. (*)
