Beloved country rock singer P Saderd (Peerapat Sawatmul) will join forces with numerous artists to host a charity acoustic concert in support of Thai elephants. The event, titled “We Love Thailand: Preserve Thai Elephants”, will take place at Maetaeng Elephant Park in Mae Taeng District on Sunday, 9th November 2025, with proceeds going towards the construction of the Maetaeng Elephant Hospital, under the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University.
P Saderd said at a press event that his lifelong love for elephants and his passion for promoting Thailand’s cultural heritage led to the idea of holding this event. Having performed internationally, he noted the fascination many foreigners have with Thai elephants. “They are gentle, intelligent and deeply symbolic of our culture. I hope this concert will help raise awareness and funds to support the people who care for these magnificent animals,” he said.
Proceeds will go towards completing the Maetaeng Elephant Hospital, expected to open in September 2026, which still requires funding for medical equipment and facilities.
Dr. Chatshot Thitaram explained that the hospital has been in planning for years. The land was granted by the Agricultural Land Reform Office, and the main building is being funded by philanthropist Kanchana Silpa-archa, who donated 49.25 million baht. The foundation stone will be laid on 31st October, though further donations are needed for essential medical equipment.
Mae Taeng has a deep historical connection with elephants, with local villages such as Ban Chang and Kuet Chang named after them. The district is home to about 500 domesticated elephants, making it one of the largest elephant communities in the world. Chiang Mai Province has roughly 900 elephants, while Surin Province holds the largest population with over 2,000. The new hospital will help ease the burden on the Lampang-based Thai Elephant Conservation Centre.
Chatchanok Thongsamrit from the TAT Chiang Mai office said that elephant tourism continues to draw international visitors, many of whom now prefer responsible tourism that prioritises elephant welfare. “This charity concert is a wonderful way to promote both conservation and sustainable tourism,” she said.
Tickets for the event can be reserved via the Maetaeng Elephant Park & Clinic Facebook page. Guests will enjoy a traditional khantoke buffet and cultural performances before the concert, which will run between 7pm to 9pm. Highlights include a live art session with P Saderd and a painting by an elephant named Phlai Thanwa, with the artwork auctioned to raise additional funds.
Those unable to attend can support the cause by donating to Bangkok Bank account number 675-0-32721-2, account name Chatshot Thitaram, Bophit Chaileart and Wanchart Burapakiet. The concert will also be streamed live on various elephant-related Facebook pages.
