Relung Indonesia Hosts Discussion on the Protection and Conflict Management of Long-Tailed Macaques

On October 28, 2024, the Relung Indonesia Foundation held a discussion at Omah Relung in Sleman, Yogyakarta, to address the increasingly urgent issue of human-long-tailed macaque (LTM) conflict. The event, themed “Long-Tailed Macaque (LTM): Efforts in Protection and Conflict Management,” brought together a wide range of institutions and environmental advocates, including representatives from Gadjah Mada University (UGM), BKSDA DIY, WALHI Yogyakarta, DLHK DIY, BTNGM, RCI, DUPP Bantul, COP, JAWI, AFJ, YEU, MAPALASKA, JSI, Kanopi, Swara Owa, and UNS. The shared goal was to explore solutions that would allow humans and long-tailed macaques to coexist peacefully without sacrificing the well-being of either.

Why Has Human-Macaque Conflict Become an Increasingly Complex Issue?

What drives the human-macaque conflict to become more complex and multifaceted? What impact does it have on the environment, economy, and daily lives of local communities? In this dynamic forum, participants discussed the issue from various perspectives, shared experiences, and proposed innovative ideas.

Uncovering Root Causes: Human Expansion and Habitat Pressure

The issue of long-tailed macaques goes beyond being a mere “wild animal nuisance” that disrupts human activities. Mas Nur Kholis from WALHI Yogyakarta emphasized that this conflict arises due to significant pressure on LTM habitats, which have been steadily diminishing. He pointed out that major changes in the landscape—whether due to forest fires, the construction of the South Cross-Java Road (JJLS), or land repurposing for tourism—have driven macaques from their formerly lush habitats. As a result, these macaques have moved into agricultural and residential areas in search of food and shelter.

“This issue isn’t just anthropogenic; it’s also capitalogenic,” stated Mas Kholis, indicating that the conflict is a byproduct of an economy that prioritizes industrial profits, often without considering the impacts on ecosystems and natural balance.

The Impact of Long-Tailed Macaque Attacks on Community Life

What are the consequences of an increasing LTM population encroaching on inhabited areas? Mr. Lim, an environmentalist, described how long-tailed macaques have become a major threat to farmers. In regions like Dlingo and Kulon Progo, rice, cassava, and other horticultural crops have suffered significant damage from macaque raids. In some cases, farmland has been entirely abandoned, as farmers feel unable to protect their crops from the increasing intensity of these attacks.

Data from the Mangunan area shows that between January and April 2024 alone, crop damage caused by LTM incursions amounted to IDR 326 million (three hundred twenty-six million rupiah). Beyond financial losses, communities also face mental stress due to this ongoing conflict. “We aim to find a fair solution—not only to reduce hostilities toward the LTMs but also to protect farmers’ rights and the environment,” explained Mr. Arief, the moderator from Relung Indonesia.

Innovative Solutions and Field-Tested Approaches

In the search for a middle ground, the discussion presented several innovative approaches. One approach involved planting crops that are relatively resistant to macaque disturbances, such as melinjo and cashew. These crops are considered suitable for the dry conditions in DIY and are less vulnerable to macaque attacks since the macaques typically eat only the skins, leaving the seeds usable for farmers.

Sterilization was also mentioned as an option that has been tested to control LTM populations. However, this program faces challenges, as previous sterilization efforts have shown limited effectiveness and require further refinement. Other measures, such as creating buffer zones or even involving community leaders in spiritual ceremonies, have been attempted but remain limited in effectiveness.

Pak Ifan from POPT Dlingo and Jetis added that local communities have tried various methods to deter LTMs, including using firecrackers, nets, and traditional methods like loudspeakers emitting dog sounds. However, LTM intelligence and adaptability have made these methods only temporarily effective. Community members and environmental experts agreed that a holistic and collaborative approach involving communities, government, and the tourism industry is needed to achieve a long-term solution.

The Role of Government and the Importance of Cross-Sector Collaboration

The discussion also emphasized the critical role of local government in addressing this conflict. Ms. Ferry from DLHK DIY stated that accurate data on LTM populations and movement patterns are crucial for effective planning and management. Additionally, local governments need to adjust land conversion policies to avoid further disrupting the remaining LTM habitats.

Pak Awang from BKSDA DIY stressed that managing this conflict requires a comprehensive ecosystem approach, supported by robust data and cross-sector collaboration, including involvement from government agencies, conservation organizations, and the tourism sector.

Next Steps and Future Hopes

As a follow-up, Relung Indonesia, related organizations, and participants committed to continuing this discussion forum to formulate more concrete solutions. The next discussion will be held with WALHI Yogyakarta approximately one month from this meeting. A WhatsApp community group will also be formed to facilitate real-time information exchange among participants and strengthen collaboration in addressing this conflict.

Given the increasing complexity of the long-tailed macaque issue, the efforts made by Relung Indonesia and other organizations demonstrate the need for sustained collaboration. It is hoped that affected communities, industry players, and government will work together to restore harmonious coexistence between humans and long-tailed macaques, as once existed when nature was more balanced.

Contributors:

Shella