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Virtual Jungle Thailand
By
13 MINUTE READ
13 July, 2024

  1. National Geographic Photo Ark
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Virtual Jungle Thailand logo

Welcome to Virtual Jungle Thailand

This first-of-its-kind initiative from the U.S. Mission to Thailand supports the development of technology-mediated education tools to promote wildlife preservation. Called “Virtual Jungle Thailand,” this innovative digital campaign aims to promote U.S.-Thai wildlife conservation efforts and raise awareness about the threats facing endangered species in Thailand.

Using extended reality (XR) and augmented reality (AR) technology, this initiative brings digital and physical engagement together, highlighting the efforts of the United States and Thailand as partners in wildlife preservation. This campaign combines hands-on workshops with youth and the public to teach them how to use technology to help protect wildlife. The project aims to create awareness that everyone can participate in these efforts.

Discover Virtual Jungle Thailand

Using Extended Reality (XR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Technology: Experience the intersection of digital and physical engagement, showcasing the partnership between the United States and Thailand in wildlife preservation.

Interactive Workshops: Our hands-on workshops designed for youth and the public, where you’ll learn how to use technology to protect wildlife. This project emphasizes that everyone can support these crucial efforts.

Extended Interactive Self-Learning:
Ever wished you could get up close with Thailand’s incredible wildlife without harming them? Now you can with the “Virtual Jungle Thailand” campaign! Our extended reality applications allow you to learn about and help protect endangered species right from your devices.

  • Capture Photos or Videos: Document your virtual encounters with these amazing creatures.
  • Learn and Share: Discover information about the endangered species that Thailand and the United States are working hard to conserve. Use the hashtag #VirtualJungleTH to share your experiences and ideas on how to protect these species.

How to use the App

  1. Scan the QR Code with ‘Styly’ application: Bring 3D animals to life in your space

QR code

QR code

  1. Meet the tiger on your screen

screenshot of a tiger

  1. Tab on the ? icon to find out more about Indochinese tigers

screenshot of instructions

Conservation Matters

Our application promotes ethical tourism and discourages harmful animal encounters. Learn how you can contribute to protecting Thailand’s wildlife through informed, responsible actions.

“Virtual Jungle Thailand” is more than just an application; it’s a step towards a brighter future for Thailand’s incredible creatures. By educating and engaging users, we aim to reduce visits to wildlife petting zoos and tiger parks, where exploitation often overshadows the beauty of Thailand’s wildlife. Choose virtual encounters over physical ones and make a real difference in wildlife conservation.

Take Action

When it comes to conservation, every action counts. Let’s make our interactions with wildlife responsible, educational, and inspiring.

See Something, Say Something! If you witness wildlife trafficking or abuse, call the 24-hour hotline at 1362 to report it.

Join us in our mission to protect and preserve Thailand’s wildlife. Download the Virtual Jungle Thailand app today and become part of the solution.

Scan the QR Codes here:

QR code
Indochinese Tiger

 

Sunda Pangolin
Sunda Pangolin
Leatherback Turtle
Leatherback Turtle
Hornbill
Hornbill
QR code
Tapir

About the Developer: Kalaya Kovidvisith

Kalaya Kovidvisith
Kalaya Kovidvisith

 

Kalaya Kovidvisith is a leader at the forefront of creative technology and innovation. With expertise across multiple careers, she also serves as a lecturer at Chulalongkorn and Thammasat University. Holding a master’s degree in design technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Kalaya combines her knowledge in design with a passion for fostering global creative communities. As the managing director of FABLAB Thailand and co-founder of FabCafe, she has played a pivotal role in establishing a worldwide network specializing in creating products, services, and experiences for the future. FabCafe’s global presence spans cities such as Tokyo, Bangkok, Barcelona, Kyoto, and Taipei, among others, serving as a hub for creative collaboration and technological exploration.

Kalaya’s commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation has earned her recognition on the global stage. She was selected as a Global Entrepreneur Summit Delegate in 2015 and served as the Southeast Asia representative for Asia Pacific Weeks Berlin in 2016. Additionally, Kalaya is an official partner of Hardware University, a Korean-based hardware accelerator, and a fellow of the On Deck Climate Tech Fellowship. She was also an active participant and delegate in the Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2015 held in Nairobi, Kenya, which later inspired her to start a project using interactive XR technology to support wildlife preservation. She developed a technology-mediated education tool called Endangered Species Lab for public engagement in forest ecosystems and simulating the economic impact of deforestation. Her dedication to empowering youth in technology and entrepreneurship is visible through U.S. Embassy-funded initiatives aimed at empowering young audiences to leverage technology to preserve their natural environment, validate local wisdom, and create economic opportunities.

Background: U.S. Mission Supports Thailand in Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Efforts

The United States has been a close ally and partner with Thailand for two centuries, collaborating in numerous areas, including wildlife conservation. Agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), the State Department’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) work closely with their Thai counterparts to combat wildlife trafficking in Thailand and neighboring countries. In 2024, the U.S. Mission to Thailand is launching “Virtual Jungle Thailand,” a digital campaign to promote U.S.-Thai wildlife conservation efforts and raise awareness about the threats facing endangered species in Thailand.

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