Indonesia has previously developed 19 Strategy and Action Plans covering 22 species, of which 12 plans have expired. Seven Action Plans remain active: for the Javan gibbon Hylobates moloch (2016–2026), Javan leopard Panthera pardus melas (2016–2026), helmeted hornbill Rhinoplax vigil (2018–2028), crested black macaque Macaca nigra (2019–2028), maleo Macrocephalon maleo (2020–2030), Flores hawk-eagle Nisaetus floris (2021–2030) and Komodo dragon Varanus komodoensis (2025–2035). The expiry of earlier plans underscores the need to update conservation strategies in response to population declines, habitat loss, genetic risks, climate change and persistent knowledge gaps.

In a coordination meeting on 24 February 2026 in Bogor, West Java, organized by the Directorate of Species and Genetic Conservation of the Ministry of Forestry, standardized Strategy and Action Plan guidelines were introduced and priority species requiring new or revised plans identified. Threatened mammals such as the anoa (Bubalus spp.), babirusa (Babyrousa spp.) and small wild cats were highlighted as key taxa. Participants agreed that 13 animal species and two plant species require revisions of existing Strategy and Action Plans, reflecting updated scientific knowledge and changing field conditions. In addition, 38 animal and 32 plant species that currently lack dedicated conservation plans were identified as priorities for Strategy and Action Plan development. Participants also emphasized the need to evaluate the seven active Strategy and Action Plans, focusing on progress, effectiveness and implementation constraints. These assessments are expected to inform more adaptive, evidence-based conservation strategies and identify best practices. Following a subsequent coordination meeting of the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (Ditjen KSDAE) in April 2026, additional priority taxa were identified, increasing the number of species requiring new Strategy and Action Plans to 51 animal and 34 plant species.

An important outcome of the meeting was an agreement to designate lead institutions or coordinating bodies for each species-specific Strategy and Action Plan, to strengthen accountability, clarify roles and improve cross-sectoral coordination. The development of these plans will involve a multi-stakeholder approach, engaging government agencies, scientists, academics and conservation practitioners to ensure that conservation actions are scientifically robust, practical and broadly supported. Key cross-cutting challenges highlighted included habitat loss and fragmentation, declining populations, inbreeding risks, zoonoses, climate change impacts and limited data on species distribution. Participants stressed the importance of linking in situ and ex situ programmes, improving data sharing and integrating scientific research into conservation planning.

This initiative marks an important step towards strengthening evidence-based conservation in Indonesia. By combining the development of new Strategy and Action Plans, revision of existing plans and evaluation of ongoing efforts, stakeholders aim to ensure that future strategies are adaptive, science-driven and responsive to emerging threats, while enhancing collaboration to safeguard Indonesia’s biodiversity.