Embassy of Indonesia in London

neglect and suffering at-surabaya zoo indonesia
We are writing on behalf of the Asia for Animals organising committee members, representing international organisations with extensive knowledge of animal welfare issues. We express our deep concern with regards the welfare conditions for animals at Surabaya Zoo, following international media reports highlighting cases of severe neglect.
To resolve issues of neglect and suffering for captive animals in Indonesian zoos we recommend the strengthening of the ministerial decree regulating captive animal facilities, and the development of national zoo legislation incorporating minimum welfare standards and requiring the inspection and licensing of zoos, aquariums, circuses, and private collections keeping wild animals in captivity.
Regular inspections and audits will allow management problems to be identified at an early stage before they have a serious negative impact on the health and welfare of animals, and will facilitate the implementation of new management regulations to address such issues.
A register of all captive wild animal facilities will aid dissemination of information and subsequently aid the management of establishments for the benefit of animal welfare, conservation, education and research. Facilities operating illegally or consistently not meeting the minimum standards can be closed to the public and procedures developed for the subsequent care of the animals.
On behalf of our members globally, please consider the development of national zoo licensing incorporating minimum welfare standards for all captive animal facilities in Indonesia.