Decrease in Mini-Kangaroo Population in Kei Island Forest, Southeast Maluku

The Malra Regency Government in Southeast Maluku (Malla) has taken a proactive stance in preserving the minihargic, also known as a short circuit or landfill, and affectionately referred to as Aha by some residents. This unique animal has captured the attention of the local community, prompting efforts to raise awareness about its conservation.

In a significant move, the minijuana has been chosen as the mascot for the 2022 Miti Kei Pesona Festival (FPMK) by the Malra Regency Government. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding endemic species like the mini graduates, which are becoming increasingly rare in the region.

Budi Toffy, Chairman of the 2022 FPMK Committee, emphasized the importance of preserving the mini graduates, which are found in certain forests on Kei Besar Island. However, their population has dwindled over time, making them challenging to locate. By selecting the minijuana as the festival mascot, the government aims to raise public awareness about the urgent need to protect these elusive creatures.

The existence of the minijuana has not been extensively documented in Indonesia, with most knowledge about them originating from the Wasur National Park area in Papua. Seto Purwanto, Public Relations of the Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA), confirmed that the Maluku BKSDA had released minijuana in the conservation area in Malra, specifically in the Dab Nature Reserve on the Kei Besar Islands.

The Dab Nature Reserve spans an area of 14,218 hectares and serves as a vital habitat for various flora and fauna, including the minijuana. Additionally, the reserve is home to kei parrots, which are exclusive to this region. Despite the conservation efforts in place, the presence of the minijuana remains relatively unknown to the general public, including residents of Malra.

Residents who have encountered the minijuana are typically from villages like Reamru, Weduar, and Ohoituf in the Kei Besar District. These small creatures are known to inhabit forested and mountainous areas, often appearing during the east wind season from May to the middle of the year before descending to coastal regions.

Grendi Rada, a resident of Ohoi Reamru, shared insights into the behavior of the minijuana, highlighting their group living habits and seasonal movements. While residents generally refrain from disturbing these animals, some resort to hunting them during adverse weather conditions that hinder fishing activities.

Kace Ubro, another resident of Kei Besar, mentioned that not all locals consume minijuana due to their endearing appearance. Some find them too adorable to eat, reflecting a sense of reverence and admiration for these unique creatures.

In conclusion, the efforts of the Malra Regency Government and local residents to protect the minijuana underscore the importance of biodiversity conservation in Southeast Maluku. By raising awareness and fostering a sense of stewardship towards these endemic species, we can ensure their survival for future generations to appreciate and cherish.