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RHINOCEROSES are among the most endangered animal groups on the planet. The global rhino population is facing numerous challenges, including habitat loss, poaching, and other threats.
The rhino population in Java is facing further challenges. The Javan rhinoceros’ species is endemic to Ujung Kulon National Park, and its population is believed to have decreased to only 50 individuals from 76, reportedly due to poaching. The Javan rhino species is also facing the threat of Arenga palm trees (Arenga obtusifolia), which can outcompete the park’s natural flora and food sources for the rhinos.
The report indicates that the total global rhino population for all species is 26,700 individuals. This figure excludes rhinos in zoos or those under private ownership, focusing exclusively on rhinos in the wild or within national parks.
Preserving the Javan Rhino is the mission of Forest Keeper, a movement dedicated to the preservation of the species. On Saturday, (01/30), 2026, Forest Keeper held a ‘Ngobad’ (Chatting Javan Rhino) activity in Banyu Biru, Pandeglang, Banten. This initiative is the result of a collaboration between CAN and Ofora Foundation, with the aim of increasing public awareness about the importance of preserving the Javan Rhino in Banten.
The Forest Keepers, a group comprised of Tika Heliana, Arief Zul Permana, Bogie Agustine, Chika Hendarin, Dwi Kristiyono, Ricky Rianto, Ofat, and Kisunda, have been dedicated to the conservation of the Javan Rhino population in Ujung Kulon National Park (TNUK) for an extended period. Ngobad, an interactive talk show, was attended by students from National Vocational High School (SMKN) 3 Pandeglang. The event featured resource persons who are experienced in detecting the presence of Javan Rhinos in TNUK.
According to Arief Zul Permana, a member of the Forest Keeper community, said Ngobad is one of our strategies to raise public awareness about the importance of preserving the Javan Rhino. We hope that this activity will inspire the younger generation to get involved in environmental and wildlife conservation efforts.
He explained that Forest Keeper had received support from the Pelorus Foundation in England in its efforts to preserve the Javan Rhino. We believe that collaboration and public awareness are key to protecting endangered species like the Javan Rhino.
This Ngobad activity will continue to be carried out by campaigning to communities that care about the conservation of Javan rhinos and providing opportunities for the general public to become Forest Keeper members. [traveltext.id]
