PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan confirmed that Bandung Zoo will not be able to operate during the 2026 Eid holiday because there is no official manager in the Utilization Cooperation (KSP) scheme after the previous conservation institution's permit expired, while also distributing kadeudeuh to workers who have not received their rights since February (20/3/2026).

Farhan met directly with zoo workers to socialize and convey the progress of the disbursement process of funds from the Bandung City Government, which is still awaiting the signing of the agreement.

Farhan stated that the earliest disbursement of funds could be in April 2026, in accordance with the city government's commitment.

"The funds will be disbursed at the earliest in April, as we promised," said Farhan.

The National Alms Agency (Baznas) also distributed aid to workers worth IDR 1 million per person as a form of concern ahead of Eid.

Workers continue to care for the animals and maintain their health despite facing limitations because they have not received their entitlements since February.

The Natural Resources Conservation Center together with the West Java Provincial Forestry Service monitor the condition of the animals to ensure that care continues according to conservation standards.

Farhan emphasized that zoos must be closed to the public during the Eid holiday to ensure management is in accordance with conservation regulations.

"We are very sorry to inform you that Bandung Zoo will not be accepting visitors during the Eid holiday," Farhan emphasized.

The Bandung City Government is targeting the appointment of a new manager to be completed by the end of April 2026 so that operations and supervision can resume in May.

Farhan said that prospective managers must be legally registered as conservation institutions and have a permit from the Ministry of Forestry.

Farhan also emphasized that old workers must be retained and that the management concept must not eliminate the Drenten tradition which is a Sundanese characteristic.

The manager selection process will involve the Center for Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE), the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), the West Java Provincial Forestry Service, city government elements, experts, and cultural figures.

Farhan recommended residents take a nature trip to the Ir. H. Djuanda Grand Forest Park, which will reopen on the second day of Eid al-Fitr, or 2 Shawwal.

Several other public spaces in Bandung City remain open with limited restrictions, such as the lower Baksil area and Teras Cikapundung, while the upper Baksil area and Teras Cihampelas are still temporarily closed.

(Bandung City Communications and Information Service/bhf)