Chonburi, Thailand,10 July 2026– Khao Kheow Open Zoo hosted a lively “Happy Deng Day” event on Friday to mark the second birthday of Moo Deng, the world-famous pygmy hippopotamus who has captured hearts across Thailand and around the globe.
Mr. Boonchob Suthammanuswong, Chairman of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, led the official ceremony held at the zoo’s hippopotamus exhibit. He was joined by Mr. Narongwit Chodchoi, Director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, and Mrs. Jongkolnee Kaewsod, Director of the Zoological Park Organization, who delivered the event’s objectives. The celebration drew a large crowd of dignitaries, fans, and tourists.
The ceremony saw Mr. Boonchob and zoo executives, together with visitors, sing “Happy Birthday” to Moo Deng before presenting her with a specially prepared birthday cake made entirely of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fans gathered enthusiastically to watch the moment. The event also featured a photo exhibition and gallery dedicated to Moo Deng, a colorful parade of animal mascots, and interactive booths where visitors could write birthday wishes for the beloved hippo.
In his address, Mr. Boonchob praised Moo Deng’s remarkable impact as a symbol of Thai soft power. “Moo Deng has proven to be a true soft power ambassador for Thailand,” he said. “She has generated tremendous positive momentum across multiple dimensions such as boosting the local economy and tourism in Chonburi province while generating significant revenue to support the Zoological Park Organization’s wildlife conservation mission under royal patronage.”
At the same event, the zoo announced the launch of its major “Hippo Village” project, backed by a 75-million-baht government budget. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, hoping to transform the facility into a new landmark by that year.
The project will upgrade the exhibition and breeding areas for both pygmy hippopotamuses and common hippopotamuses using a Nature-Based Design concept that closely replicates their natural habitats. The improvements are intended to significantly enhance animal welfare, allow the animals to express natural behaviors more freely, and incorporate sustainable environmental management systems.
Beyond providing Moo Deng and her companions with a superior new home, “Hippo Village” is expected to serve as a major tourist attraction, improving visitor capacity, safety, and overall experience while delivering long-term economic benefits to Thailand’s tourism sector.
