Free Mali from Manila Zoo

Thirty-five-plus years ago in a lush forest in Sri Lanka, Mali, a barely past-weaning baby elephant, was stolen from her mother.

She was transported to a zoo in Manila where she continues to languish to this day. Elephants are intelligent and very familial. Can you imagine being separated so young from your mother? Mali has led a sad life in captivity, alone, no other elephant for company. Jeered at by onlookers, Mali has no veterinary treatment and paces daily in her small captivity area. Thousands of caring people around the world have petitioned to have Mali moved to Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand for rehabilitation. The powers who run the zoo refuse to let Mali live the natural life she was intended to live. Mali deserves to roam free and smell trees, leaves and walk in grass. Her feet are sore and cracking from pacing the dry dirt in her small enclosure.

Many animal organizations have tried to purchase Mali to release her. The Manila Zoo refuses to let Mali live naturally. It is so sad to see
her hold her own tail for comfort. Is there no
humanity that can be compassionate for a poor neglected elephant such as Mali? Peta Asia has worked hard for her release.

Please live with compassion. Speak up for Mali’s release to Boon Lott. Contact the zoo, tell them how you feel. Contact local officials who can help free Mali. Go see Mali if you can, it will bring tears to your eyes. Animals suffer at the hands of humans who only think of their ego and greed.

Please help free Mali. She deserves to live the life she was intended to live as a free elephant.

DAVID KNIGHTLY, United States