Jakarta Governor Confirms Ownership of White Bengal Tiger at Ragunan Wildlife Park
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A white Bengal tiger now resides at Ragunan Wildlife park in south Jakarta, confirmed to be legally owned by DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung. The governor clarified that, unlike Sumatran tigers which are protected, Bengal tigers are permitted for private ownership.
The unusual situation arose public attention after a video circulated on social media depicting a tiger in Ragunan appearing emaciated, sparking allegations of mistreatment. However, Governor Anung swiftly addressed the concerns, asserting the tiger – named King – was purchased directly by him and has been well-cared for.
“Bengal tigers are not protected, so why can they be owned,” the governor stated after a visit to Ragunan Wildlife Park on Thursday, November 20, 2025. “Sumatran tigers are not allowed, Bengali are allowed.” He emphatically denied receiving the animal as a gift, stating, “No, just buy it.From the start it was called Raja, from buying it.”
Governor Assumes Full Obligation for Tiger’s Care
despite Ragunan Wildlife Park being managed by the DKI Provincial Government, Governor Anung has taken full financial responsibility for King’s well-being, specifically ensuring adequate provisions for food. “I don’t collect anything. We are responsible for food matters,” he said.
The decision to house the tiger at Ragunan, according to the governor, was purposeful. “So, I really want to entrust the tiger to this place so that it can be enjoyed by the public,” he explained, emphasizing his desire for public access to the animal.
Governor Anung also directly refuted claims circulating online that Ragunan officers were taking the tiger’s food rations home, leading to the animal’s poor condition. He believes these allegations were intentionally spread by individuals unhappy with the ongoing revitalization efforts at the park.
“Yes, if you look directly at it, it’s definitely not true,” he stated. “We are currently carrying out improvements on Ragunan. People are not happy that Ragunan has been repaired. Because I am serious about making Ragunan much more attractive.”
A video showing a tiger pacing and appearing underweight had fueled the accusations. The narrative accompanying the video alleged that the tiger’s condition was a direct result of food theft. However, Governor Anung dismissed these claims as unfounded.
Furthermore, he suggested the video may have been taken during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period when conditions at the park were substantially impacted.
The governor’s statements aim to quell public concern and reaffirm his commitment to the welfare of King and the overall advancement of Ragunan Wildlife Park.
Here’s a substantive news report answering the “Why, Who, What, and How” questions:
What: DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung confirmed he legally owns King, a white Bengal tiger residing at Ragunan Wildlife park. the confirmation came after a video circulated online showing the tiger appearing underweight, sparking allegations of mistreatment.
Who: The key figures are Governor Pramono Anung, who purchased and owns King, and the management of Ragunan Wildlife Park, which is housing the tiger. Public concern was raised by social media users who shared the video and voiced concerns about the tiger’s welfare.
Why: Governor Anung purchased King to allow the public to view the animal, believing it would enhance
