"Today, I had the opportunity to review the elephant hospital, which is the result of collaboration between Australia and the Rhinoceros Foundation of Indonesia. I have learned that there are two doctors stationed to take care of elephants here," he remarked.
Speaking in East Lampung on Saturday (December 7), Antoni noted that according to his review, the elephant hospital lacks not only veterinarians and vet nurses but also requires more facilities and equipment supportive of elephant examination.
"I have learned that several facilities are needed to support the healing process of elephants. We have taken notes of what needs providing, and we will help with this matter. This is important to ensure that the elephants remain healthy," he pointed out.
According to the minister, the elephant hospital, built in 2012, will receive assistance in the form of elephant weighing scales, a USG device, microscopes, and a variety of medicines.
"The battery of the hospital's USG device has been spoiled, thereby requiring electricity (for the device to operate). We will replace the device with a new one since we cannot risk exposure to water. That way, sick elephants can receive the finest treatments," he said.
He expressed belief that adequate equipment and facilities would enable the hospital to help reduce illness-caused deaths among elephants.
"We will also send more medical staff, both veterinarians and nurses, to the elephant hospital since there are only two doctors currently stationed there. The presence of additional staff is expected to allow our elephants to live and reproduce happily and healthily.
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Translator: Ruth Intan, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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