PHI PHI ISLANDS, Thailand – A video recently circulated on social media showing foreign tourists feeding monkeys in the Phi Phi Islands, which has generated significant public backlash. The clip, which has been viewed over 1.1 million times, highlights an action that is not only inappropriate but also violates the regulations of the Hat Noppharat Thara–Phi Phi Islands National Park.
On May 4, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation shared an update on their Facebook page regarding the incident. They expressed gratitude to the person who reported the incident and provided evidence of the tourists feeding the monkeys.
The park confirmed that feeding monkeys is strictly prohibited, as it disrupts the animals’ natural behavior, makes them vulnerable to diseases, and reduces their ability to find food independently. Furthermore, it poses a danger to visitors, as the monkeys may become aggressive in their search for food.
The park’s staff is currently investigating the details of the event, including the exact time and identities of those involved, and is actively working to track down the tourists responsible to enforce appropriate penalties.
In addition to this incident, the park has received multiple reports from other visitors about inappropriate behavior from tourists. The park has responded by enhancing surveillance in areas where tourists commonly feed the monkeys and is collaborating with tour operators and guides to emphasize the importance of adhering to park regulations. The aim is to raise awareness about the negative impacts of feeding wild animals and to ensure sustainable tourism practices.
The park authority reminds the public that all violations are subject to legal penalties under the National Parks Act of 2019. They encourage the public to report any similar incidents immediately to help protect the region’s natural resources and wildlife.
