The funds will be used to improve zoo operations and create a special exhibition for the famous hippopotamus known as, Moo Deng.
Buterin wrote a poignant letter to the director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, expressing his enthusiasm for the zoo’s dedication to education and animal welfare. He wrote:
“I was deeply impressed with your commitment to animal welfare, education, and outreach, as well as fostering a fun community spirit for visitors and staff. I was particularly excited to hear your plans for improvements to the zoo itself, especially the proposal for upgrades to the Pygmy Hippopotamus habitat.”
Thank you Vitalik Buterin @VitalikButerin for joining the Wildlife Sponsorship Program and adopting Moo Deng with a generous gift of 10,000,000 THB for her family! We look forward to working with you over the next 2 years for the benefit of the Khao Kheow Open Zoo community & all… pic.twitter.com/Ykrr53Y2tZ
— สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว Khao Kheow Open Zoo (@KhaokheowZoo) December 26, 2024
Two installments of five million Thai Baht each will be used to deliver the contribution.
The first installment will be made on Dec. 26, 2024, with the second installment following on Dec. 26, 2025, and all future contributions occurring on the same date.
Vitalik Buterin went on to stress the significance of this gift as a sign of appreciation and camaraderie, saying:
“On behalf of the whole Ethereum ecosystem, I would like to offer our thanks and a gesture of friendship to all of the country, in recognition of all that you have done in welcoming us.”
Moo Deng, who has become an unexpected yet cherished celebrity in Thailand, will soon have a dedicated exhibit funded by this donation. Due to this popularity, the Moo Deng (MOODENG) token was also launched which surged about 1600% and touched its all-time high of $0.6804 a month ago.
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However, despite the ongoing attention surrounding the Moo Deng exhibit, the price of the MOODENG token has yet to see significant change, trading at $0.277. This represents a 4.75% decline from the previous day. Its market cap stands at $274.75 million, and trading volume has experienced a notable increase of 23.65% in the past 24 hours, reaching $98.44 million.
Moodeng Price Chart | Source: CoinMarketCap
Vitalik concluded his letter by expressing his excitement for the future, writing: “I very much look forward to seeing Moo Deng live long and prosper, and how, alongside her, our family and community also thrive.”
Buterin’s continuous efforts to connect local community and wildlife activities with global technology innovation are highlighted by this kind of donation. The money will be used by Khao Kheow Open Zoo to improve its infrastructure and educational initiatives, solidifying Moo Deng’s status as a representation of cooperation and concern.
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