Search
What would you like to search for?
Built on long-term research of both the macaque and people, Selamatkan Yaki (SY) is a multi-faceted Yaki conservation programme focused on education and outreach, protected area management and sustainable development, and biodiversity monitoring. Central to SY is motivating positive behaviour change and creating the conditions to socialise this.
One of their key programmes is the Yaki Pride Campaign aimed at promoting the macaques as a popular icon. Through a myriad of platforms such as school engagements, information stands and billboards, this campaign harnesses community-based social marketing to raise awareness of the ecological and cultural importance of the species. It cultivates a deeper recognition of and pride for local flora and fauna. Supported by a thriving network of Yaki ambassadors—students, celebrities, community leaders alike— the campaign highlights that the macaques are critically endangered, endemic and protected, and that everyone can contribute to their conservation.
With Mandai Nature’s support since 2016 and continued collaborations with local and national stakeholders, the efforts of SY have grown from strength to strength. Despite experiencing pandemic- related challenges and restrictions, the 4th Yaki Pride campaign kicked off in Minahasa in 2020 with the slogan “People are proud to take care of the Yaki”. It reached over 40 schools in one year, closing 2021 with yet another successful Yaki Youth Camp.
SY is actively changing the mindsets of local Minahasan people around consumption of wildlife meat. Under their Wildlife Trade Mitigation Strategy, meat sellers at well-established traditional markets have proudly declared that they do not sell protected and endangered meat. Media coverage of these achievements and activities have strengthened the pledges, contributing to the creation of new norms. The signs of shifting attitudes and behaviours are in spring.
Established in 2007, Selamatkan Yaki is a North Sulawesi-based programme focused on protecting the Celebes Crested Macaques and their habitat through conservation, education and research activities. Their vision is for the Macaca nigra to flourish as self-sustaining populations in their native habitat within healthy, balanced and well-protected ecosystems and are recognised as a symbol of local and national pride.
