Indonesia has officially initiated a new phase of environmental diplomacy through a conservation partnership involving the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) with the Government of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Raja Juli Antoni, Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry, and Yasutomo Suzuki, Governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, as part of President Prabowo Subianto’s state visit to Japan.
This program is not merely a wildlife loan, but a component of Indonesia’s broader Green Diplomacy strategy, underscoring its long-term commitment to preserving global biodiversity heritage.
“This is not just a wildlife loan, but part of Indonesia’s long-term commitment to safeguarding the world’s biodiversity heritage,” Raja Juli Antoni stated in an official release (March 28).
Komodo Debuts in Japan’s iZoo
The Komodo dragons will be placed at iZoo, Japan’s largest reptile and amphibian zoo, located in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture. Under the breeding loan scheme, the animals will be safely bred while also enhancing public education and international awareness about wildlife conservation.
Raja Juli Antoni emphasized the strategic value of the Komodo’s presence in Japan. Beyond serving as a conservation icon, the species is also expected to promote Indonesia’s natural richness.
The presence of this ancient species at iZoo is anticipated to encourage Japanese visitors to explore its natural habitat on Komodo Island, East Nusa Tenggara.
“This is our first collaboration, but not the last. We hope that the presence of Komodo dragons at iZoo will promote Indonesia’s rich biodiversity,” he added.
Collaboration Under International Standards
The implementation of the program will be governed by a technical agreement between iZoo and Surabaya Zoo, covering animal care, transportation, and strict monitoring procedures.
The Ministry of Forestry emphasized that all processes will be conducted transparently, carefully, and in full compliance with national regulations and international standards, including the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Beyond conservation, the program also carries educational value and facilitates knowledge exchange between institutions. Shizuoka Governor Yasutomo Suzuki welcomed the initiative and expressed hope for the success of the breeding process.
“Since Komodo dragons are an endangered species, we are very pleased to contribute to their breeding. We hope this cooperation will proceed smoothly,” Suzuki said.
