CHONBURI, Thailand – On September 8th, 2025, Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi province hosted a celebration for the 60th birthday of Mae Mali, a female hippopotamus recognized as Thailand’s longest-living hippo. The event, held at the zoo’s hippopotamus exhibit, was attended by Mr. Narongwit Chodchoi, the zoo director, government officials, tourists, fans, and students, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere as they sang birthday wishes for Mae Mali.
The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of a giant fruit cake, specially crafted with Mae Mali’s favorite treats, including dragon fruit, watermelon, apples, papaya, bananas, sweet potatoes, grapes, carrots, and fresh grass. As Mae Mali emerged slowly from her large pool, befitting her age, she eagerly approached the cake and devoured it with delight, prompting smiles and applause from the crowd.
The event was further supported by TS Cosmetic Co., Ltd. (NAREE brand), which donated 100,000 baht through their wildlife sponsorship program to fund the birthday cake and support Mae Mali’s healthcare needs in her old age. Additional activities included writing birthday wishes, an exhibition showcasing Mae Mali’s life story, and fun games for visitors.
Mae Mali’s journey began when she arrived from Tilburg Zoo in the Netherlands on June 8th, 1967, at just one year old. She initially resided at Dusit Zoo before relocating to Khao Kheow Open Zoo on December 18th, 2018. Over her six-decade life, Mae Mali has given birth to 14 offspring and remains in good health. As Thailand’s oldest hippopotamus, she may even have the potential to become the world’s longest-living hippo in the future.
