For a new Tiger Temple

Mr. Head of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants Conservation Department of Thailand

In recent years Pha Luang Ta Wat Bua, known as Tiger Temple exploited a tiger farm illegally in Sai Yok in Kanchanaburi province.

You recently announced a series of measures. We want to draw your attention to some important points.

The Tiger Island is now operational, it should be able to accommodate more than 100 tigers in large spacious enclosures, where tigers have the opportunity to move in a natural habitat. The bridge that extends across the island allows visitors to observe the tigers without the need to approach them and letting them enjoy a quiet life.

As part of a mammoth project, the temple has purchased 3,000 rai (480 acres) of land with the intention to separate them into sections 10 rai (1.6 hectares) per tiger. This area was to house the tigers in a semi-natural state with constant monitoring, but with as little human interaction as possible.

It would be unfortunate not to use these existing resources. This Temple is also a source of work and significant income for the province and its people and a magnet for tourists. The recent evolution of the elephant park Pang Chang Sai Yok shows that tourism respectful of nature and wildlife is possible.

We ask you to carefully study the possibility of transforming the sanctuary of the Tiger Temple using the assets acquired by their exploitation.

Thank you in advance.