Dolphins swim in the Mekong River in Kratie province last year. WWF
Several officials – and representatives of civil society organisations working on natural resource conservation – have encouraged local community artists to create content or produce educational videos and artworks which will inspire people to love Cambodia’s precious Irrawaddy dolphins. The campaign aims to raise public efforts to conserve this endangered species.
Despite the close attention paid by the authorities, the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) continues to suffer population losses from illegal fishing, among other factors.
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) country director Seng Teak explained that the task of protecting and conserving the dolphins needs to involve all relevant parties, especially local communities.
He encouraged artists to use their influence to inspire the public to consider the plight of the precious creatures.
“All forms of art – especially performance or songs – could be used to cultivate the idea and the spirit of loving Irrawaddy dolphins. This would help the government and our partner organisations with our conservation work,” he said.
He added that the conservation of the dolphins – for the benefit of future generations – is the responsibility of the entire nation.
Ouk Vibol, director of the Fisheries Conservation Department under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, joined the call for them to create videos and songs that feature the unique creatures.
He said that artistic publicity materials are one of the fastest ways to attract and inspire people of all ages.
“Music is a great medium, as we can hear it on the radio, television and online. Creative songs are better than broader educational materials in some cases, and they are a fast way to let people know what they can do to help preserve the dolphin population,” he added.
Chan Sokunthy, director of the Kratie provincial Department of Tourism, said officials are prepared to work closely with artists who visit the Anlong Kampi Irrawaddy dolphin conservation area, in order to ensure they are able to capture the best possible footage.
“This kind of publicity not only makes the public aware of the dolphins, it attracts domestic and international tourists to the province,” he said.
Last week, tourism department officials helped a team of photographers and videographers who were preparing to create a music video for the Dolphins are our heart, sung by beloved Cambodian singer Meas Soksophea.
