Rescued from suffering, 31 young monkeys have been saved from a cruel dance training village. The road to rehabilitation is complex, requiring expert care, patience, and the chance to relearn the skills they were denied.
Images courtesy of Jakarta Animal Aid Network
Indonesia's macaques: Intelligent, social, and tragically exploited
Stolen from the wild as infants, their mothers shot before their eyes, these helpless young monkeys endure unthinkable cruelty.
From just eight months old, they are starved, beaten, hanged, and chained by the neck. Forced into masks and doll-like costumes, they are trained through fear and pain to dance, ride bicycles, and perform tricks for passing tourists.
This suffering is real, and the impact on these sensitive animals is devastating.
The first steps towards a new life
Thanks to our supporters and local partner, Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN), 31 young macaques have been saved from a brutal ‘dance training village.’ They have been safely relocated to JAAN’s rehabilitation centre in Cikole, West Java, which has the expertise and infrastructure to give them high-quality care.
These monkeys often arrive with painful, infected wounds, worms, and deep emotional scars from years of neglect and abuse. Yet, our partners have seen the incredible transformation that love and care can bring.
With just a little compassion, these once-traumatised monkeys begin to heal, mentally and physically thriving and reclaiming the joy they deserve.
Support Their Recovery – From Chains to Treetops
Your support can aid every step of their recovery. As we share their stories, milestones, and path to healing, you'll see the impact of your generosity (and feel the joy of supporting their steps toward freedom).
What's ahead:
- Moving to large enclosures that feel wild, filled with tree trunks, ropes, and swings to regain their strength.
- Careful grouping by age and gender to help them form natural family bonds. This socialisation process can take over a year, but with your help, they will heal and learn to trust again.
- When they’re ready, preparations start for their ultimate journey: freedom.
