On November 27, 2024, the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme (SOCP) Orangutan Quarantine and Rehabilitation Center in Sibolangit, North Sumatra, was hit by a devastating landslide.
Triggered by extreme rainfall and high winds, the landslide caused significant damage to this critical facility. Thankfully no injuries were reported among the staff but sadly, we have received reports of two orangutans passing from injuries sustained during the natural disaster. Additionally, key pieces of infrastructure were severely affected at the center. Portions of enclosures were damaged, and the veterinary clinic—essential to the care and rehabilitation of rescued orangutans—suffered heavy losses.
The SOCP is a vital part of orangutan conservation efforts, providing rescue, rehabilitation, and eventual release for orangutans who have been displaced by habitat destruction, poaching, and other threats. This facility is now in urgent need of repairs to ensure it can continue its mission.
What Happened and What’s at Stake
After the landslide, the SOCP team moved swiftly to implement temporary safety measures. Orangutans are being closely monitored, with staff ensuring their daily needs, including feeding, medical care, and enrichment, are met. However, these measures are only temporary.
Without immediate repairs, the safety and long-term sustainability of the center remain at risk. The damage threatens to compromise not only the rehabilitation of orangutans but also future rescue efforts and the center’s role in conservation research.
Our Plan for Recovery
The Orangutan Conservancy, alongside our partners, is committed to supporting the SOCP center in its recovery. Together, we aim to raise $20,000 to address the most urgent needs:
- Temporary Reinforcement of Enclosures – $10,000
Repairs and stabilization to ensure the safety and security of the orangutans. - Site Cleanup and Access Repairs – $10,000
Clearing debris and restoring access roads to enable smooth operations and logistics.
These funds will allow the SOCP center to recover quickly and resume full operations while planning for long-term reconstruction.
How You Can Help
This is a critical moment for orangutan conservation. Your support can make an immediate difference in rebuilding this essential facility and securing the future of the orangutans it serves.
Here’s how you can help:
- Donate: Every dollar contributes to the recovery effort. Even a small gift can help restore enclosures or clear access for essential supplies.
- Spread the Word: Share this project with your friends, family, and networks to raise awareness about the SOCP center’s urgent needs.
- Partner with Us: If you’re part of an organization or brand that shares our mission, consider joining us in this effort through sponsorship or in-kind support.
Why This Matters
The SOCP’s work is at the heart of orangutan conservation in Southeast Asia. Without this facility, countless orangutans in need of rescue, rehabilitation, and care would have nowhere to turn. Rebuilding now means creating a stronger, safer foundation for the future—one that ensures orangutans have the chance to thrive in the wild.
