01/04/2026
In memory of Birutė Galdikas (1946–2026)
It is with great sadness that we reflect on the passing of Dr. Birutė Galdikas, a true pioneer in primatology and a lifelong champion for orangutans, Indonesia’s forests, and its extraordinary biodiversity.
Birutė was one of the first scientists to dedicate her life to studying orangutans in the wild. Her work at Camp Leakey in Tanjung Puting National Park laid the foundation for much of what we understand today about orangutan behaviour, ecology, and conservation. Through decades of commitment, she contributed to bringing global attention to Indonesia’s rainforests, not only as places of incredible beauty, but as ecosystems of global importance.
Her work helped highlight the richness of Indonesia’s natural heritage; from the peat swamp forests of Borneo to the unique biodiversity of Sulawesi, home to species found nowhere else on Earth. In doing so, she was part of a wider, ongoing effort and helped inspire many who continue to work alongside Indonesian scientists, communities, and government institutions to understand, value, and safeguard these landscapes for future generations.
We had the privilege of meeting Birutė briefly, and it was clear that her passion and dedication had already left a lasting mark across Indonesia and beyond. Her influence lives on in the people she inspired, the research she contributed to, and the forests and wildlife that continue to benefit from her life’s work.
At Selamatkan Yaki, we recognise that our work here in Indonesia, helping to protect species like the critically endangered Macaca nigra and supporting government and communities in their efforts to live alongside wildlife is part of a much wider, shared effort, built over time through the contributions of many, including Birutė.
We honour her legacy by continuing this work - supporting efforts to protect Indonesia’s forests, safeguard its biodiversity, and promote a future where both people and wildlife can thrive together.
