TLDR
- Elephant riding is banned in Malaysia since 2012 due to health risks for the animals, with only trained mahouts allowed to ride for conservation purposes.
- A recent viral video shows a groom riding an elephant on his wedding day, sparking public outrage and questions about the incident's oversight.
- Indonesia has recently become the first Asian country to ban elephant rides, with major tourist spots ceasing the practice early this year.
We often associate size with strength. The bigger something is, the more we assume it can lift, carry and endure. While this may be true for some things, it is a misconception many of us still hold about elephants.
Despite their enormous size, experts have long pointed out that elephants’ anatomy is not meant to support heavy loads on their spine. As a result, elephant riding is widely considered an unethical practice, as it can cause numerous health problems for the animals, including spinal deformities over time.
In Malaysia, public elephant riding has been prohibited since 2012 by the National Elephant Conservation Centre (NECC) in Kuala Gandah. Only trained handlers, known as mahouts, are permitted to ride them for specific conservation or operational purposes.
However, a recent incident has sparked debate over the practice.
Image Credit: @haykal5588 | Threads
In a video posted on social media, a groom could be seen riding an elephant on his wedding day. It is unclear where and when the incident took place, but multiple claims suggest the elephant involved is Sanum, a 20-year-old female elephant under the care of the NECC.
The video shows the groom sitting on a decorated chair mounted on the elephant's back. The animal can also be seen wearing decorative accessories on its head.
Needless to say, netizens were outraged by the incident and questioned why no one at the ceremony raised concerns about it.
Image Credit: @haykal5588 | Threads
Image Credit: @haykal5588 | Threads
Indonesia has already put a stop to elephant rides
For context, Indonesia has become the first Asian country to ban elephant rides. The nationwide ban was first announced in December last year, with authorities gradually enforcing compliance since the beginning of this year.
The ban also led popular tourist attractions in Bali, such as Bali Zoo and Mason Elephant Park & Lodge, to officially cease offering elephant rides by the end of January this year.
Watch the video of the incident below:
Featured Image Credit: @haykal5588 | Threads
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