The move follows the death of a young female elephant, Kalistha Lestari, known as “Tari”, who tested positive for Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV), a fast-acting virus that primarily targets calves.
“There is no effective vaccine for EEHV, so we’re trying to strengthen the calves’ immunity with supplements and vitamins,” said Satyawan Pudyatmoko, Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation.
The virus can kill within 24 hours and poses the greatest risk to elephants under four years old.
“I’ve consulted with veterinarians. It spreads very quickly,” he said.
The enhanced nutrition is aimed at boosting immunity beyond what elephants gain from their natural diet.
EEHV affects only elephants and is not transmissible to humans. It is one of the leading causes of death among young Asian elephants, especially in captivity or conservation centers.
Tari, a popular calf featured on social media, was found dead on Sept. 10 at Tesso Nilo National Park in Riau, one day after showing no symptoms. Lab tests confirmed the virus.
Her photos and videos drew widespread attention online, making her a symbol of conservation, with over 350,000 followers on Tesso Nilo’s official platforms.
Officials hope the new preventive steps will protect other calves in the park and beyond.
The government has launched the Peusangan Elephant Conservation Initiative (PECI) to support Sumatran elephant conservation.
In coordination with the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force, the ministry is reclaiming land in Tesso Nilo from illegal palm oil plantations, which threaten elephant habitats.
Only 22 elephant habitat zones remain in Sumatra, down from 44 in the 1980s, prompting calls for civil society and public participation in conservation.
Human-elephant conflict remains a major challenge, especially in Aceh and Lampung. WWF estimates the Sumatran elephant population at 2,400–2,800, with ivory poaching still a significant threat.
Related news: From hope to loss: Tari’s death and the fight to save elephants
Related news: Government intensifies Tesso Nilo National Park restoration efforts
Translator: Prisca TV, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Primayanti
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