Mason Elephant Park and Lodge, a conservation and recreation institution located in Ubud, Gianyar, suspended its elephant riding attractions as of Sunday, January 25, 2026.
The suspension came after Mason Park received two warning letters from the Bali Provincial Natural Resources Conservation Agency.
The government agency sent the first warning letter on January 13, 2026. However, by the January 21, 2026 deadline, Mason Elephant Park had not completely stopped its elephant riding activities.
Finally, a second warning letter was sent by the Ministry of Forestry through the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation on January 21.
This second warning reiterated the obligation to stop all forms of elephant riding performances without exception. Furthermore, the conservation agency was asked to implement adjustments to elephant management standards in accordance with animal welfare principles.
“The Bali Provincial Natural Resources Conservation Agency is committed to ensuring that every elephant in its conservation facilities is treated in accordance with animal welfare principles. We reiterate that all conservation facilities are required to stop elephant riding and begin transforming towards more educational, innovative, and ethical wildlife tourism,” said Ratna Hendratmoko, Head of the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency, in an official statement on Sunday (January 25, 2026).
During monitoring conducted on Sunday, January 25, 2026, the Natural Resources Conservation Agency confirmed that no elephant riding demonstrations were found at the conservation facility.
The agency expressed its appreciation to various parties, including conservation activists, animal observers, academics, and social media communities who supported the implementation and enforcement of this policy.
Sources : AntaraNews, NusaBali
Feat Image : via BKSDA Bali