RATANAKIRI: The Ministry of Tourism partnered with Airavata Elephant Conservation Association to launch the "2,000 Riels per Elephant” campaign to address the food shortages and health issues facing elephants in Cambodia and to provide them with treats like bananas and sugar cane.

On June 14, the Ministry of Tourism announced the campaign, which solicits money from local and foreign donors to support the Airavata Elephant Conservation Association in its efforts to provide food, veterinary treatment and other conservation measures.

The ministry said that all donations go toward protecting and conserving elephants in an effort to increase their numbers. Asian elephants are an endangered species and their conservation is crucial to natural resource management and sustaining Cambodia’s biodiversity. Without these efforts, Cambodian elephants will inevitably follow in the path of the now-extinct tiger.

The campaign calls on government officials, the Ministry of Tourism, tour operators, travel agencies, the public and philanthropists to donate. Donations can be made through their ABA Bank Account (001 674 633), their ACLEDA Bank account (15255639)or by scanning the QR Code attached.

Under the patronage of King Norodom Sihamoni, the Airavata Elephant Conservation Association participates in social, cultural and economic activities to protect the very few remaining elephants in the Ratanakiri province.