By: Natalia Trita Agnika

An online petition to revoke the sale of elephant ivory products through Change.org initiated by veterinarian Wisnu Wardana has recently won. Receiving more than 28,000 supports, three online stores, Tokopedia, Lazada, and Bukalapak responded to the petition. They stated that they have closed the posts selling elephant ivory products and will immediately improve their policies so that products from protected animals are no longer sold in these online stores.

The success of the petition shows that there are many people who are outraged by the death of Yongki - a member of the elephant trainers in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (TNBBS) - for his ivory. It also shows that there are still many people who care and want to do something for the betterment of animal conservation. Concern for preserving and protecting animals, especially protected animals, is not only the responsibility of the government, security forces, or conservation organizations. The public also has an obligation to safeguard and protect animals in the wild through various means.

Related to animal welfare, on Sunday (4/10), the world commemorated World Animal Day. The annual observance that globally started in 1931 is a momentum to celebrate and provide opportunities for various animals to obtain their right to life and welfare. The public is also reminded to help protect the habitats of these animals. The global celebration of World Animal Day reminds us that every animal has an ecological role and impact on human life. Elephants, for example, are known as "Umbrella Animals". The presence of elephants in a location means that there are sufficient resources to support the lives of other animals and indicates the health of an ecosystem.

As people who live far from the habitat of endangered animals, we can still play an active role in protecting their existence by participating in monitoring. We must report findings of crimes against protected wildlife so that the death of endangered animals can be minimized. Another way to contribute directly to animal rescue efforts is through the Sahabat Gajah program. By participating in supporting this program, we can show our concern for endangered animals by becoming their "best friend".