The first step to freedom: What quarantine really means for rescued monkeys

Why quarantine is essential 

For the 31 ex-dancing macaques rescued from the streets, quarantine is the first step toward healing. It’s not just a medical requirement - it’s a chance for each monkey to rest, recover, and slowly rediscover what it means to feel safe. 

Many arrived underweight, dehydrated, or carrying parasites. Others had painful dental injuries caused by cruel “training” practices. All of them had been through immense trauma – often snatched from their mothers or the wild, chained and forced to perform, often punished harshly if they resisted. 

In quarantine, they’re given the time and space to recover both physically and emotionally

Life in quarantine 

Each monkey is cared for around the clock by the expert team at Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN). Every day begins with nourishing meals - fresh fruit, vegetables, protein, and immune-boosting vitamins. They’re fed at 7am and again in the afternoon, followed by enrichment to keep them busy and stimulated. 

They receive enrichment like leafy bundles, peanut butter-filled Kong toys, and frozen fruit treats (“monkey ice cream” made from pureed fruit!). And while staff minimise direct human interaction to help the monkeys focus on natural behaviours, they’re never far away, monitoring each monkey’s progress, gently and respectfully. 

Regular medical checks, parasite treatments and tuberculosis screening ensure the monkeys are safe and healthy before joining others. Some, like Panjul, needed dental surgery after having their canines clipped. Others, like Meli and Amel, arrived very thin and are now thriving with extra feedings and care.

Healing begins here 

Though still in their own enclosures, the monkeys can see and hear each other. These early interactions - curious glances, mirror grooming, playful movements - mark the beginning of their social recovery. Stereotypical behaviours caused by stress often begin to fade, replaced with signs of curiosity, confidence and calm. 

Unyil, who once screamed in fear when people approached, now relaxes and eats happily. Jono, once pacing in anxiety, is now showing signs of leadership and connection with the others. Even the quietest monkeys are slowly beginning to engage with the world again.

Looking ahead 

Quarantine is just the first chapter in their journey, but it’s a vital one. By supporting the Monkey Freedom Project, you’ve helped create a safe space where healing can begin. 

Now, many of these monkeys will leave quarantine and enter the socialisation phase, where they’ll begin forming bonds and learning how to live in a family group again. 

Thanks to you, they’re one step closer to freedom.