The Seekers’ Judith Durham Speaks Up for Mali!

The Seekers’ vocalist, Judith Durham, a jazz music legend, has joined PETA Asia’s campaign to have Mali – the lonely, ailing 39-year-old elephant who is currently imprisoned in the Manila Zoo – transferred to a reputable sanctuary.

In her current environment, Mali is denied socialisation, stimulation, room to explore and everything else that is natural and important to her. She endures intense confinement, loneliness, boredom and isolation in an area a tiny fraction of the size of her natural habitat. She has also been denied adequate veterinary care for the entire time that she has been at the Manila Zoo, which has left her with severe and painful foot problems that could prove fatal.

Hot on the heels of the band’s Australian tour, Durham has sent a letter to the Philippines Embassy in Australia, in which she says, “Transferring Mali to the sanctuary which is ready and waiting to look after her, will allow her to receive the essential veterinary care that she so desperately needs, as well as giving her an environment in which she can exercise, bathe and forage in the company of fellow elephants. … [I]f you love and respect animals as I do, please do whatever you can to influence the Government to act swiftly as time is so precious for Mali”.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III has issued a directive stating that Mali should be transferred to a sanctuary after an evaluation of her health. In a sanctuary, Mali would have acres of land in which to roam, be able to enjoy the company of other elephants and receive constant access to the best veterinary care.

The Manila Zoo is doing everything that it can to delay Mali’s transfer. But a zoo simply cannot provide Mali with what she needs. Mali needs your help finally to have her chance at a happy life.

Posted by Claire Fryer