Day 1 of the 2025 WARN Asia Conference

Yesterday marked an inspiring start to the 2025 WARN Asia Conference in Hua Hin, Thailand, hosted by Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT). With representatives from 20 countries, 47 organisations, and nearly 100 participants, the energy in the room was incredible.

The meeting was opened with remarks from Edwin Wiek, President of WARN Asia, and Mr. Nitas Nunsong, Director of the Office of Protected Area Management 3 of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) in Thailand.

Speakers from across Asia shared their experiences on protecting and managing wildlife – from Singapore and Indonesia to Taiwan, Mongolia, and beyond. Presentations highlighted work by Mandai Nature, Centre for Orangutan Protection, WildOne Wildlife Conservation Association, SAGE Foundation, Humane World for Animals, Born Free Foundation, ACRES, Mongolian Bird Conservation Center, and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

Topics ranged from long-tailed macaque management in Singapore to human-bear conflicts in Taiwan, human-elephant conflicts in Vietnam, and wildlife protection efforts in Mongolia, reflecting the shared challenges and collaboration driving conservation across the region. 

The day concluded with a discussion on wildlife protection and management led by Edwin Wiek, followed by a welcome dinner at the Amari Hua Hin Hotel, where connections and ideas continued to grow.

Stay tuned for more updates from the conference!