We manage a long-term research site dedicated to the study of Javan gibbon behavior and ecology. This initiative was launched by the primate team from Ewha Womans University (South Korea) in collaboration with IPB University (Indonesia). The research station is located in the Citalahab Forest, within Gunung Halimun Salak National Park, West Java, Indonesia.
Our site is the only long-term field station focused specifically on wild Javan gibbons, and it has become a vital field laboratory for both Indonesian and international students conducting ecological and behavioral research.
With the support of a dedicated field team composed of trained local community members, we carry out regular monitoring of wild and endangered Javan gibbons to deepen our understanding of their behavioral ecology in the submontane forests. Previously, the primate team of the Javan Gibbon Research and Conservation Project (JGRCP)—a collaboration between Ewha Womans University and IPB University—has gathered extensive data on the species’ diet, social behavior, and home range.
You can explore our publications here
To cultivate interest in primate conservation among Indonesian students and help train the next generation of conservationists, we launched a research scholarship program in 2022 for undergraduate students from various universities. Since then, ten scholarships have been awarded, supporting both the academic development of Indonesian students and providing opportunities for them to present their work at national and international conferences. Notably, one of our grantees has published their first scientific paper — read it here.
The Javan gibbons exist in the protected area; many still survive in a fragmented area outside of the protected area network with a high risk of conflict with humans, poaching, and isolation. We aimed to collect baseline data from one isolated group and compare it with a stable population at GHSNP.
Suppose you care about wildlife, community and want to learn more about conservation at the grassroots level. In that case, the internship and volunteer program is a valuable opportunity to gain experience with our team while fulfilling the official curriculum from the schools or universities. Until today, we have supported the internship program for 40+ students with different backgrounds from various vocational high schools and university in Indonesia. Read more about how to join our internship program here.