The mission, held from September 8–13, 2024, focused on monitoring progress, evaluating project outcomes, and reinforcing partnerships with the project partners, Indonesian government agencies and local stakeholders. The mission was carried out by ITHCP Coordinator Phurba Lhendup and by IUCN Senior Programme Officer Alex McWilliam.

Key meetings with Indonesian government officials

One of the mission’s highlights was a series of key discussions with Indonesian government officials and conservation partners. Representatives from the IUCN, along with local conservation partners Yapeka, INDECON, and Forum HarimauKita (FHK), met with the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation, Ministry of Environment and Forestry in Jakarta. During this meeting, the Ministry was briefed on the progress of the tiger conservation project in RBWR, while the ITHCP team presented an overview of the programme’s €8 million Euro investment in tiger conservation across Indonesia since 2014.

Finalising Indonesia’s national tiger conservation action plan

During a meeting with Forum HarimauKita, the discussion focused on revising Indonesia’s national tiger conservation action plan. The Forum, a key partner in Sumatran tiger conservation, requested IUCN’s support for technical and financial to finalise the action plan. This collaborative approach highlights the ongoing commitment to ensure the survival of the Sumatran Tiger, a species teetering on the brink of extinction.

The Ministry expressed keen interest in IUCN’s involvement as Indonesia prepares to review and update this critical document.

Engaging with provincial government officials

The mission team held meetings with the Nature Resource Conservation Center (BBKSDA Riau), the provincial agency responsible for managing protected areas in Riau. The discussions centred on the challenges of human-wildlife conflict in the area, which continues to threaten both wildlife and local communities. The provincial officials emphasised the need for ongoing capacity-building support from IUCN to effectively address these issues and ensure sustainable conservation management in RBWR.

Community engagement and project site visits

The mission team also met with local communities to review the impact of the conservation projects on the ground. The ITHCP has been instrumental in providing sustainable livelihood alternatives, reducing the reliance on unstainable use of natural resources. A visit to Tanjung Belit village showcased local initiatives, including a library dedicated to conservation education and efforts to promote sustainable natural resource use. Community leaders acknowledged the positive effects of the Programme while calling for continued support to address these challenges.

This field mission underscored the crucial role of inclusive conservation efforts involving government officials, local communities, and international partners. With Phase III of the Tiger Programme running until March 2025, IUCN and its partners aim to further advance sustainable livelihoods and habitat protection in Rimbang Baling, safeguarding one of Indonesia’s last refuges for the Sumatran Tiger.