Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has made a significant donation of 10 million Thai baht (approximately $292,000) to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand.
The donation is part of his commitment to support wildlife conservation, particularly the promotion of Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus who became an internet sensation in 2024. Buterin’s generous gesture will fund the zoo’s operations, enhance exhibits and support the wildlife sponsorship program.
A warm gesture of gratitude
The donation, announced on December 26, 2024, is a sign of Buterin’s deep appreciation for Thailand’s hospitality at Ethereum-related events, particularly the Devcon SEA conference in November in Bangkok. In his statement, Buterin thanked the Ethereum community for the warm welcome and emphasized that this contribution is a sign of appreciation for the country and its people.
Source: X
“I would like to express our gratitude and a gesture of friendship to the entire country… What better way to do this than with a Christmas gift to someone dear to all Thais, Moo Deng, and who has become one of them?” “The most unexpected and important Thai celebrities on the world stage,” Buterin wrote on social media.
Moo Deng: A viral star
Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo, has captured the hearts of people around the world with her playful personality and viral social media videos. The videos showcasing her energetic antics and adorable moments have catapulted her to international fame and made her an unlikely celebrity in Thailand. The zoo has even created a dedicated Moo Deng exhibit where visitors can learn more about the dwarf…
