Edi Syah Putra

Edi Syah Putra is an Indonesian forestry and conservation professional with more than 20 years of experience in human–wildlife conflict mitigation, protected-area management, forest rehabilitation, ranger training, community livelihoods and sustainable economic development. A Forestry Science graduate from STIK Pante Kulu, Edi currently serves as Human–Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Manager with Forum Konservasi Leuser, overseeing mitigation teams and programs across the Leuser Ecosystem in Aceh. His previous leadership roles include Regional Field Manager for FKL’s operations across five districts and Manager of the Serbajadi Conservation Response Unit. He has also worked with the Indonesia Climate Change Trust Fund, Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency, Fauna & Flora International, Mercy Corps and IOM, bringing extensive field-based experience in managing conservation programs, strengthening ranger capacity and working with communities to protect forests and wildlife.

Edi plays a critical frontline role in securing threatened elephant habitat in Eastern Leuser before it is cleared for oil palm development. Drawing on his deep local relationships, conservation experience and understanding of community land tenure, he works directly with customary and private landowners to build trust, negotiate fair and transparent purchases, and secure local support for long-term protection. His ability to navigate sensitive land negotiations is essential to connecting the elephant corridor, preventing further habitat loss and creating a secure landscape in which elephants and surrounding communities can coexist.