GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Three Bali tourism attractions featuring elephant encounters have been accused of mistreating the animals, according to a statement released by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Australia.
The nonprofit organization claims that these destinations keep elephants far from their natural habitat and mislead visitors into unknowingly supporting abusive practices.
“PETA urges tourists to research before visiting places that claim to ‘rescue’ elephants but force them to interact with visitors,” said Mimi Bekhechi, Senior Campaigns Advisor at PETA Australia, in a statement published Thursday, 11 December.
PETA’s report highlights concerns about the disruption of natural herd structures, noting that female-led elephant groups normally live cooperatively, protect one another, and collectively raise calves.
The organization alleges that in Bali-based attractions, adult elephants are forced into tourism roles, calves are separated from their mothers, and animals endure confinement and coercive handling.
The group also released covert video footage showing mahouts carrying bullhooks, metal-tipped, curved tools traditionally used to control elephants. In the footage, PETA claims the pointed end is directed toward the elephants’ heads, causing pain and fear.
One of the attractions mentioned, Mason Elephant Park & Lodge, strongly rejected PETA’s allegations. The operator said it is “the only fully audited and approved elephant facility in Indonesia” and affirmed that it complies with all established standards for the care of captive elephants.
The representative said that their Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatrensis) are supervised by multiple trained mahouts, receive varied nutrition, vitamin supplements, and routine veterinary care.
“Yes, we offer both bareback and lightweight-chair elephant rides. These activities provide essential physical exercise for muscle development, bone density, foot health, digestion, and overall well-being,” the representative explained.
They emphasized that only some elephants participate in ride activities, that workloads are limited, and that elephants have rotating schedules including rest days and sick leave.
According to the operator, the riding seats use thick padding and are designed to distribute weight safely.
“The seat and rider together account for only about 7% of an elephant’s total body weight less than the proportional weight carried by horses,” the representative added.
The Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA Bali), led by Ratna Hendratmoko, has not yet issued an official response regarding PETA’s allegations.