Jakarta. The Forestry Ministry plans to ban elephant riding in conservation areas across Sumatra and Kalimantan, citing efforts to protect the country’s elephant population and improve animal welfare.

Deputy Forestry Minister Rohmat Marzuki said the policy is aimed at protecting both elephants and visitors, as well as ensuring better treatment of the animals used in tourism.

“This policy is intended to protect elephant populations, ensure their safety, and uphold animal welfare standards,” Rohmat said during a hearing with lawmakers at the parliament complex in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The ban will be formalized through a presidential instruction, or Inpres, which is expected to take effect in the near future. Indonesia would join a growing number of countries restricting or ending elephant riding in tourism due to ethical and conservation concerns.

Rohmat said the move has received positive responses from both domestic and international audiences, reflecting rising awareness of animal welfare issues in the tourism sector.

“Indonesia is among the countries that have fully prohibited elephant riding for tourism purposes,” he said.

Despite the ban, authorities will continue to allow limited, non-invasive interactions between tourists and elephants. Visitors will still be able to take photos, feed the animals, and participate in supervised bathing activities.

Elephants may also continue to be featured in controlled attractions, provided such activities comply with welfare standards, Rohmat added.