Bali Zoo Stops Elephant Riding Attraction

Illustration - Sumatran elephants enjoy coconut leaves while bathing in a pond at one of the conservation agencies in Bali, Thursday (15/1/2026) ANTARA/Dewa Ketut Sudiarta Wiguna

DENPASAR - The Bali Zoo conservation agency has stopped the elephant ride attraction to strengthen the welfare of animals.

"Animal welfare is our top priority," said Head of Public Relations (Public Relations) of the Bali Zoo Emma Kristiana Chandra in Singapadu Village, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Thursday.

He explained that the cessation of the activity had been carried out since January 1, 2026 in order to comply with government regulations through the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE) of the Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut) which had issued Circular Letter (SE) Number 6 of 2025 regarding the Cessation of Elephant Riding Performance at Conservation Institutions.

In the process of permanently discontinuing the program, his party coordinated with the Bali Provincial Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA). "This policy was taken to support better elephant management and ensure that the standard of care continues to be improved," he added.

The conservation agency's manager also assessed that the termination of the program would provide better time and space for elephants to undergo natural behavior, social interaction, as well as care and enrichment programs that support animal welfare.

Instead, the Bali Zoo continues to focus on daily elephant care, conservation education to the public, and the development of visitor experiences that are oriented towards learning and caring for animals.

The number of Sumatran elephant collections at the tourist attraction is 14 individuals, namely 10 females and four males.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Bali BKSDA, Ratna Hendratmoko, appreciated the initiative of the 12-hectare conservation agency which followed up on the SE from the Ministry of Finance.

"We appreciate the Bali Zoo for its initiative and commitment to stop elephant riding by January 1, 2026," said Hendratmoko when confirmed separately.

Based on data from the Bali Regional Conservation Agency, there are 13 conservation agencies on the Island of the Gods, five of which manage Sumatran elephants. The total number of Sumatran elephants managed by five conservation agencies in Bali reaches 83 individuals.

He also asked other conservation agencies in Bali to do the same to ensure the welfare of elephants and other animals in general.