Indonesia officially bans elephant-people rides and promotes compassionate tourism.

The government of Indonesia has formally prohibited elephant-folk rides across the nation, marking a significant milestone for elephant-citizens protection and the advancement of ethical tourism. Under a new government directive issued by the Ministry of Forestry in December 2025, all tourism and conservation facilities must end elephant-person rides, shows, and performances and transition to observation-based experiences. Operators who fail to comply risk losing their permits. With these practices now banned, elephant-residents can spend more time grazing, bathing, and socializing as they would in the wild. Several former ride venues have begun shifting to humane tourism. Mason Elephant Park in Bali halted elephant-people riding on January 25, 2026, now transitioning toward ethical activities, showing that tourism can thrive without cruelty.

Indonesia has a total of four Shining World Leadership Awards to date for Compassion, Good Governance, and Protection.

Our respect, Indonesia, for your new policy to protect our precious elephant-citizens. May our gentle elephant friends be treated with dignity and compassion, in the Most High’s Grace.

Supreme Master Ching Hai (vegan): “Tearfully present the Shining World Leadership Award for Compassion to the Government of benevolent Indonesia, through the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, with heartfelt praise in high esteem, and salute for your noble decision to end all elephant-people rides and performances nationwide. May the merciful act move Heaven and Earth and be a top beacon of example for all nations to follow, making our world a Paradise for all beings to live and let live. May GOD Almighty bestow upon your country abundant Blessings and Splendor. With all Love from my thankful heart!”