Indonesia frees two orangutans rescued from plantation amid wildfires

Indonesia’s forestry minister led the release of two male Bornean orangutans, rescued from an oil palm plantation in West Kalimantan, back into their natural habitat. The release comes amid wildfires that have displaced and endangered orangutans, with rescue teams reporting dozens of animals taken from fire-affected areas, including some that were injured, dehydrated or severely underweight. Conservationists warn that fires and habitat loss threaten the species’ access to food and shelter, and say rehabilitation alone cannot ensure its survival. Reports also raise concerns about the destruction of protected habitat within commercial concessions and the need for stronger safeguards and accountability. Officials and conservation groups say ongoing habitat protection and fire mitigation are essential to prevent further rescues.