White Horse Allegedly Exploited for Tourism in Canggu Has Died
A white horse in the Canggu area of Bali, which was in a pitiable, emaciated condition and had been made viral by a foreign national, has reportedly died.
The horse gained widespread attention because of its distressing state, leading to allegations that it was being exploited for the interests of tourism in Canggu.
In the viral post, the foreign national showed several horses in poor physical condition, including the white horse. The individual expressed deep concern regarding the horse’s health and attempted to find information regarding its owner.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Badung Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), I Gustity Agung Ketut Suryanegara, stated that an inspection of the site was conducted alongside the Badung Regency Agricultural Office following the viral reports of horses allegedly being exploited to support tourism in Canggu Village, North Kuta.
“Regarding the viral news of the horse, this horse was old, approximately over 30 years of age,” said Suryanegara when confirmed on Friday (18/9).
He mentioned that there were three privately owned horses at the location, and the viral, emaciated horse died on 16 September 2024. “The viral horse died yesterday, 16 September 2024, due to illness or stress, as confirmed by a veterinarian,” he added.
As for the two remaining horses, they have been moved to the Tabanan Regency area as of today, where better living conditions are being sought for them.
“Previously, these horses were indeed rented to tourists for rides along the beach. Since two years ago, they have not been rented out, but they were still taken to the beach for walks,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), Ratna Hendratmoko, stated that horses do not fall under the category of wild animals.
“Therefore, the authority does not lie with us. Since horses are considered domesticated animals, the authority rests with the Agricultural Office. However, regarding the viral news, we deeply regret the situation,” she remarked.
The Head of the Badung Regency Agriculture and Food Office, Anak Agung Ngurah Raka Sukadana, promised to provide detailed information regarding the horses.
“Regarding the incident involving the horse, an integrated team from the Satpol PP and relevant regional agencies inspected the location this morning. I will provide the results later,” he said.