Elephant Prevents Longtime Keeper from Leaving, Blocks His Exit

A video of a Cambodian elephant chasing after her longtime caretaker has gone viral, tugging at the hearts of thousands online.

The footage shows Lucky, a 26-year-old Asian elephant at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, following her keeper, Try Sitheng, as he drives away, her trunk reaching out and her body moving to block his path, as if begging him not to leave.

The heart-wrenching clip quickly spread across social media, sparking concern from the public.

Many questioned whether Sitheng had been dismissed and why Lucky, who had bonded deeply with him, was being left behind.

Over Two Decades of Care and Devotion

Try Sitheng’s connection with Lucky dates back over 20 years, where he began caring for her when she was just a baby.

According to Khmer Times, Sitheng explained that he chose to step down from his role due to workplace pressures, which left him with no option but to resign.

Wildlife Alliance: Resignation Was Voluntary

Addressing the public’s concerns, Wildlife Alliance Cambodia issued a statement denying any dismissal.

The organisation stated that Sitheng had resigned voluntarily, submitting a letter of resignation.

Wildlife Alliance further clarified in a statement that Try Sitheng had voluntarily submitted his resignation without being asked or dismissed.

Minister Steps In After Public Reaction

The situation drew so much attention that Cambodia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Dith Tina, personally stepped in to mediate.

According to Asia News Network, the minister met with Sitheng to discuss his resignation, the reasons behind it, and possible ways to maintain his connection with Lucky.

Photo courtesy of the Cambodian Agriculture Ministry/The Phnom Penh Post via Asia News Network

During the meeting, Sitheng expressed deep regret over leaving Lucky and explained the workplace disputes that led him to submit his resignation.

Despite the emotional toll, he declined to return to his previous role and instead requested permission to visit Lucky occasionally.

“Mr Sitheng declined to return to his previous position, and simply requested permission to visit Lucky occasionally and spend time with her as a family member,” said the ministry in a statement.

The minister supported this request and praised his years of dedication in taking care of Lucky.

Support for Future Conservation Work

The Ministry acknowledged Sitheng’s dedication and promised support for his future conservation efforts.

According to reports, Sitheng visited the Prambei Mom Forest Community in Kampong Speu province on July 2. Recognising his passion for wildlife conservation, the minister supported his future efforts, particularly his dream of working to protect the Banteng (cattle) in that area.

Minister Tina also pledged to raise the concerns of Sitheng and his former colleague at a meeting with Wildlife Alliance representatives.

Prime Minister Also Weighs In

The situation even caught the attention of Prime Minister Hun Manet, who addressed it during a public event in Kampong Thom on July 3.

Hun Manet said,

“This is not a state matter, it’s an internal issue within an organisation. But it touches the emotions and interests of our people, and led to requests from some of our citizens. That’s why the minister got involved. Ultimately, the internal decisions between the individual and the organisation are not something we can interfere with,” he said

He added that while the government could not interfere directly, it would not stay silent, and noted that the meeting was organised specifically to mediate the issue.

Not Just Obligation, But Real Care

Though Sitheng will no longer work at the rescue centre, the door remains open for occasional visits, allowing Lucky to see the man she has known for nearly her entire life.

For now, Lucky remains under the care of Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, while her longtime friend watches over her from a distance, no longer a keeper, but still a family.

Watch the videos here:

@astroulagam

This elephant’s touching goodbye to the caretaker who raised him for over two decades left everyone in tears. Years of trust, care, and companionship. The silent, emotional goodbye that speaks volumes about loyalty and love ❤️ Video Credits : memer_boltheyy

♬ original sound – danaa.bgm 🧿. – • dansha.bgm •