New Generation of Orangutans in Bukit Tigapuluh, Monitoring is Key After Release

On September 28, 2026, the team encountered a female orangutan named Jeky Chan with a newborn male baby, Jerry. Jeky Chan has been back living in nature since July 2015.

Previously, Jeky Chan's first child, Jelly Bean, was observed to be independent and separated from his mother in June 2026.

The next encounter occurred on October 16, 2026. The team found a mother with a child estimated to be three years old. Both look healthy and active, but the identity of the parents is still being traced to determine whether the pair is newly recorded or has been seen before.

Releases require long-term monitoring

Head of the Bukit Tigapuluh National Park, Gebyar Andyono, said the presence of orangutan cubs was a positive indicator for the condition of the animal's habitat and breeding.

"Their story also brings hope for the future of Sumatran orangutans in their natural habitat," said Gebyar.

However, these three encounters cannot yet be used to conclude the magnitude of the increase in the orangutan population in the area. The available information does not include the total population, birth rate, or child survival rate.