East Lombok. Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar marked Indonesia's 79th Independence Day by releasing two eagles into the wild at Mount Rinjani National Park in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.

“While interacting with the local community and observing their work firsthand, I also released two Brahminy Kites, named Anjani and Jayengrana, back into their natural habitat,” Minister Siti Nurbaya told Beritasatu.com on Saturday.

The Brahminy Kite, known in Indonesia as Elang Bondol, is a bird of prey native to Southeast Asia which holds cultural significance in Indonesia. Particularly in Jakarta, where it serves as the city's mascot, the bird symbolizes freedom and strength, reflecting the spirit of independence. Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting this species, which faces threats from habitat loss and environmental degradation.

Minister Siti also took the opportunity to greet hikers at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level.

While the primary Independence Day celebrations were held in Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital in East Kalimantan, and in Jakarta, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo had directed nine ministers to lead ceremonies in remote and outer regions. Minister Siti chose to celebrate the day at Mount Rinjani.

During her visit, she met with six local conservation groups at the Rinjani National Park office, expressing her appreciation for their ongoing efforts in preserving the park.

“We must ensure that the independence we have achieved extends beyond political freedom to include the freedom to live in a healthy, sustainable environment and to prosper,” she emphasized.

Minister Siti also conveyed warm greetings to President Jokowi, Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, President-elect Prabowo Subianto, and Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

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