Research Center for Elephant Conservation and Forest Biodiversity (PKGB)
Region
Asia
Country
Indonesia
Flyway
East Asian - Australasian flyway
Initiative
WLI Asia-Oceania
About
Name of organisation
Organization name Pusat Riset Konservasi Gajah dan Biodiversitas Hutan (Research Center for Elephant Conservation and Forest Biodiversity)
Funding support
Number of staff
26
Number of visitors per year
1000
Overall aims of the centre
The Research Center for Elephant Conservation and Forest Biodiversity (PKGB) aims to conserve and restore the Singkil Peat Swamp as one of Sumatra’s most important wetland ecosystems. Our specific objectives are to conduct long-term research on peatland ecology and key species such as Sumatran elephants, orangutans, and migratory waterbirds; to strengthen community participation in wetland protection through sustainable livelihood initiatives; to reduce human–wildlife conflict in peat swamp border areas; and to provide scientific evidence and policy recommendations that support wetland conservation at regional, national, and international levels.
Description of the centre
The Singkil Peat Swamp, located in Aceh Singkil District, Indonesia, covers around 82,000 ha and is part of the Leuser Ecosystem. It supports rich biodiversity including Sumatran elephants, orangutans, estuarine crocodiles, fishing cats, and migratory waterbirds. PKGB runs biodiversity research, bird monitoring, community-based conservation, student field visits, and exhibitions. Several hundred local residents, students, and stakeholders participate in activities each year.
Work Areas
Main CEPA work area
PKGB’s work around CEPA focuses on integrating research with outreach. We organize environmental education programs for schools and universities, awareness campaigns on the importance of wetlands and peat swamp ecosystems, and focus group discussions with stakeholders on wetland management. We also empower local communities living near the peat swamp through training in sustainable livelihoods that reduce dependence on forest exploitation. Communication is strengthened through public lectures, exhibitions, and collaboration with local media to raise awareness of wetland biodiversity and the urgent need for its protection.
Top three successes
Community livelihood projects, such as mushroom cultivation and honey bee farming, worked well because they combined conservation with income generation, reducing dependence on peatland resources. Bird monitoring and youth engagement activities were also successful by providing hands-on learning and building community pride in local biodiversity.
Top three challenges
Some projects struggled to maintain momentum after initial funding, showing the need for long-term community ownership and capacity building. We learned that aligning conservation with cultural values and tangible benefits is crucial, and other organizations can apply these lessons when designing sustainable wetland programs
Expertise
Interpretation techniques
Producing written materials; Using audio-visual tools
Visitor centres
Managing / creating habitat
Participation
Engaging young people; Engaging the local community; Working with volunteers
Education and communication
Early years education; Delivering adult education; Working with primary schools; Developing resources / materials
General
PR and marketing; Running effective administration; Fund-raising; Project planning.
Contact
Name: Cut Sarah Rizkita Rahmi
Address: Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
Telephone: 0852-6709-1137
E-mail
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