Elephant riding attractions at Mason Elephant Park Bali have officially ceased following government enforcement of a national conservation policy. The suspension took effect on 25 January 2026, marking the end of elephant riding activities at the Gianyar-based park.
The decision follows the issuance of a Second Warning Letter (SP II) from the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE) under Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry.
The warning was issued as part of the implementation of Circular Letter No. 6 of 2025, which prohibits elephant riding performances at conservation institutions across the country.
Mason Elephant Park confirmed that it has complied with the directive. Assistant Manager Ni Wayan Leny said the park officially suspended all elephant riding activities from the effective date.
“Starting 25 January 2026, we will no longer accept elephant riding activities. We will also ensure and continue to improve the welfare of all animals at Mason Elephant Park,” she said.
Leny added that management remains committed to maintaining animal welfare standards at the park, in line with conservation regulations issued by the Ministry of Forestry.
Authorities Emphasise Enforcement and Animal Welfare Compliance
The Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency (KSDA Bali) welcomed the park’s compliance with the policy. Ratna Hendratmoko, Head of Bali KSDA, expressed appreciation for the move and confirmed that Mason Elephant Park currently manages 24 elephants, consisting of seven males and 17 females.
“We appreciate Mason Elephant Park’s move to stop elephant riding attractions starting 25 January 2026, as a form of commitment to animal conservation and welfare,” Ratna said.
Ratna also stated that Bali KSDA, in coordination with the Directorate General of KSDAE, will continue to monitor and ensure that all conservation institutions in Bali comply with the ban on elephant riding activities.
According to the agency, the cessation of elephant riding is expected to support the development of animal tourism practices that prioritise conservation principles, education, and animal welfare across Bali.
Before the suspension, Mason Elephant Park had been under public scrutiny for continuing to offer elephant rides despite earlier warnings issued by the Ministry of Forestry through the Bali KSDA.
The issue gained attention after artist and activist Melanie Subono raised concerns on social media regarding the continued operation of elephant rides at the park.
In her post, Melanie questioned whether elephant riding activities were still being offered to tourists despite the issuance of a warning letter from the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency.
Her comments drew public attention to the enforcement of conservation regulations at tourism-based wildlife facilities.
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