If you want to visit the zoo in Jakarta, you can come to Kebun Binatang Ragunan (Ragunan Zoo). There is the Pusat Primata Schmutzer (Schmutzer Primate Centre) here, where you can see the protected primate species, such as orangutan, bekantan (long-nosed monkey), chimpanzee, and gorilla. What makes it unique is that the 13-hectares cage is designed as a rainforest so the primates can feel as if they are in their original habitat.
Entering the gate of primate center you will see a bridge where the primates will be around. If you want to see closer, you can head to the orangutan tunnel, where you can see from behind the glass how the orangutans interact with one another. It’s fun, isn’t it?
The name Schmutzer was taken from the pioneer behind the primate center. She was Pauline Antoinette Schmutzer, a Dutch descendant who was born in Wonorejo, Central Java, who was a painter and animal lover. Pauline felt the lack of the government’s attention to the animals, so she donated her wealth to build the Pusat Primata Schmutzer. Pauline’s generosity made it possible for us to have a recreation while learning about the animal kingdom.
To enter the primate center you need to pay for only Rp6,000,- on weekdays and Rp7,500,- on weekends. But to get there you must first enter the Ragunan Zoo, with ticket as much as Rp4,000,- for adults and Rp3,000,- for kids. So, do you feel intrigued to visit the primates here?