Balikpapan — The Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), in collaboration with the Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional (BRIN), conducted a population survey of the proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) in the Balikpapan Bay area from May 4–8, 2026. The activity was part of a collaborative research initiative aimed at supporting the development of scientific baseline data and a standardized proboscis monkey population monitoring system for conservation purposes in the buffer zone of the Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN).

The survey was carried out across 12 major rivers in Balikpapan Bay using the line transect distance sampling method through boat-based surveys. This method was applied to obtain more accurate population estimates by considering wildlife detection probabilities during field observations, providing a foundation for the development of a long-term population monitoring system based on modern statistical approaches.

During the survey, the research team collected various types of field data, including proboscis monkey sightings, group sizes, observation distances, as well as habitat and environmental conditions along the survey routes. Data collection was conducted systematically with temporal replication to improve the quality and reliability of the research results.

This research represents one of ITK’s contributions to supporting biodiversity conservation efforts in East Kalimantan, particularly within the mangrove ecosystem of Balikpapan Bay, which serves as an important habitat for the proboscis monkey as an endemic species of Kalimantan.

Currently, all survey data are still undergoing verification, processing, and statistical analysis. The research findings are expected to serve as a basis for developing conservation strategies for proboscis monkeys and mangrove habitat management in Balikpapan Bay, especially in addressing the challenges of regional development and landscape changes resulting from the development of the Nusantara Capital City.