To the Forestry Administration of Cambodia, APSARA National Authority, and all relevant parties:

We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned by the recent relocation of at least 56 pig-tailed and long-tailed macaques from the Angkor Archaeological Park. We believe this action, carried out with significant disregard for animal welfare and ecological balance, necessitates immediate review and rectification.

The methods employed in capturing these animals were troubling. Indiscriminate trapping using baited cages and the  firing
 of tranquilizer darts at monkeys in trees, which resulted in at least one reported death from a fall, raise serious ethical questions. These methods demonstrate a lack of adequate consideration for the animals' safety.

The decimation of the macaque population is a matter of serious concern. Removing approximately 10% of the population, with a particularly severe impact on the pig-tailed macaque population by targeting males, threatens their long-term survival in the park. The disruption of established social structures, the removal of alpha and beta individuals, and the separation of families and friends, including mothers from their juveniles, are causing significant distress.

The lack of transparency surrounding this operation is deeply troubling. The Cambodian Forestry Administration's vague announcements about relocating monkeys to zoos, forests, and breeding farms are unacceptable. We demand full disclosure of where each and every monkey has been taken, with clear assurances that none have been sent to breeding farms. We require comprehensive data and regular updates on the well-being of these animals.

Furthermore, we condemn the authorities' attempts to justify these actions by exaggerating and fabricating stories of macaque aggression and temple damage. These narratives, which conveniently ignore the role of irresponsible tourism and the APSARA National Authority's own neglect of temple maintenance, are a dishonest attempt to deflect responsibility.

We believe these animals are an integral part of the Angkor ecosystem and a vital component of its cultural heritage. Their removal is a serious issue, and we urge immediate action.

Therefore, we demand the immediate and unconditional return of all relocated macaques to their home in Angkor Archaeological Park.

We must make it clear that if our demands are not met, we will be compelled to initiate a global campaign encouraging a boycott of tourism in Angkor. We are a unified and determined coalition, and we will pursue all available avenues to ensure justice is served.

We await your prompt and decisive action.

Sincerely,

The Monkeys Advocate,

Stop Abuse to Baby Monkeys,

A Voice for the Voiceless Macaques,

The undersigned petitioners.