During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand's tourism industry collapsed. Faced with hardship, Kee contemplated the heartbreaking decision of selling his elephant, Plai Mam, after receiving a reduced offer. However, in a powerful act of defiance, Plai Mam and the older elephant, Kun Chang, broke free – seemingly pleading with Kee not to sell them. Deeply touched, Kee refused the sale. Hope was rekindled on November 2nd with the birth of Baibun. Her arrival ignited a spark, leading to a dedicated fan club on YouTube and Facebook. Inspired by this outpouring of support, Kee envisioned a new future in his native Surin Province. In 2020, he began creating Banrai Baibun, a sanctuary and paradise for elephants. The project includes a medical facility to provide care for local elephants and become a beacon of education for those passionate about elephant welfare.
During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand's tourism industry collapsed. Faced with hardship, Kee contemplated the heartbreaking decision of selling his elephant, Plai Mam, after receiving a reduced offer. However, in a powerful act of defiance, Plai Mam and the older elephant, Kun Chang, broke free – seemingly pleading with Kee not to sell them. Deeply touched, Kee refused the sale. Hope was rekindled on November 2nd with the birth of Baibun. Her arrival ignited a spark, leading to a dedicated fan club on YouTube and Facebook. Inspired by this outpouring of support, Kee envisioned a new future in his native Surin Province. In 2020, he began creating Banrai Baibun, a sanctuary and paradise for elephants. The project includes a medical facility to provide care for local elephants and become a beacon of education for those passionate about elephant welfare.