The Story Behind Acres
The journey of ACRES began with a baby chimpanzee named Ramba.
In 1999, during a volunteer stint at the Singapore Zoo, Louis Ng witnessed a moment that changed his life. A baby chimpanzee named Ramba had been physically punished during an animal photography session. Frightened and hurt, she ran to him to check if her lips were bleeding. Louis soon uncovered the truth behind these sessions: baby chimpanzees were taken from their mothers, forced to perform, and punished if they resisted.
Determined to stop the cruelty and reunite Ramba and two other chimps, Poko and Gombe, with their families, Louis discovered there was no organisation in Singapore addressing this issue. So he started one. Together with nine others, he founded the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES).
Supported by the International Primate Protection League, the photo sessions ended, and in 2001, the chimps were finally reunited with their mothers—proof that change was possible, even if it began with just one animal.
ACRES has since grown from one person and three chimpanzees into a movement of staff, volunteers, and supporters working for a kinder world for animals. Ramba’s story remains at its heart.
In 2004, she escaped her enclosure and, after being darted, tragically drowned. She was six years old. ACRES continues in her memory—giving a voice to animals who cannot speak for themselves, and working to prevent such suffering from happening again.
I will forever be indebted to Ramba. She taught me the true meaning of compassion and respect for other living beings. I remember how she would seek comfort in me during the hardest times, and how her trust pushed me to act. I would not be doing this work if not for her. Rest in peace, Ramba. You will never be forgotten.
History & Milestones
2025
- Kalai Vanan Balakrishnan became the CEO of ACRES in May 2025.
- SPCA and ACRES jointly released a national White Paper on Strengthening Protections for Animal Welfare in August 2025. It focused on four key areas: raising awareness, improving legislation, upgrading enforcement, and increasing public engagement.
2024
Rescued and rehabilitated oil-soaked kingfishers during the Sentosa oil spill.
ACRES receives Municipal Services Award for otter-proofing initiative. The award recognized ACRES’ innovative approach to community engagement and wildlife protection, using non-invasive solutions to support coexistence in urban areas.
The first raptor, a Sunda scops owl, was hand-raised.
- Approval to use the once-contaminated land for the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre. After groundwater tests confirmed the site was safe, ACRES was finally able to expand and build a sanctuary, while preserving the trees and wild flora that had naturally reclaimed the space.
The first changeable hawk was rescued from the tree tops and subsequently released at his nesting site. The juvenile was observed to be back in his nest the following day by the bird watchers group.
2023
Launched the ACRES Outdoors programme. Designed to help children connect with nature, the programme teaches them how to stay safe and responsible in natural areas and when encountering wildlife.
Launched Singapore’s first Wildlife Coexistence Handbook. This first-of-its-kind handbook is a resource for members of the public and other stakeholders that guides you on wildlife etiquette when encountering various animals in our community including mammals, reptiles, birds and invertebrates.
2022
On Earth Day, the Our Wild Neighbours (OWN) initiative was launched. In collaboration with local partners and the National Parks Board, this nationwide programme promotes human-wildlife coexistence and teaches the public proper wildlife etiquette.
Wildlife Trade Penalties Strengthened. Parliament amended the Endangered Species (Import & Export) Act (2022), raising maximum jail terms (from 2 to 6 years for Appendix I species, and 2 to 4 years for Appendix II & III) and doubling fines to S$100,000 per specimen, while enhancing NParks’ enforcement powers. ACRES’ advocacy helped secure these stronger penalties and enforcement measures.
2021
Louis Ng stepped down as the Chief Executive Officer.
Co-CEO Kalai Vanan named finalist in JCI Singapore’s Top Outstanding Young Person Awards.
Conducted second undercover investigation into the welfare conditions of birds in licensed pet shops across Singapore. These findings prompted the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) to take action against 15 bird shops and investigate online listings linked to protected species.
Wildlife Act amended to strengthen protections. This included a ban on wildlife feeding and release island-wide, doubling fines to S$10,000, and empowering NParks to enforce. Sustained public campaigns, supported by ACRES’ education through the Monkey Guard programme, media advocacy, and evidence-based data, played a key role in raising awareness and driving these reforms.
Telegram Wildlife Trade Investigation Report in Singapore with Recommendations (updated 2023). ACRES’ investigative research uncovered illegal exotic wildlife sales on encrypted Telegram channels, prompting government agencies to enhance enforcement. Findings were submitted directly to authorities, helping curb online wildlife trafficking.
2020
ACRES and SPCA appeal in April to ban the selling of live turtles and frogs in wet markets. The ban took effect in December 2020.
2019
Repatriation of two Asian leopard cats to Malaysia.
2018
- Landmark repatriation of 51 Indian star tortoises to India. In collaboration with Wildlife SOS India and international authorities, these endangered reptiles safely returned to their natural habitat, marking a significant step in cross-border wildlife conservation.
- First dolphin rescued and released from a fishing line at Bedok Jetty. Approximately 8 kilograms of fishing net and line material, including weights, was restricting the dolphin’s movement, who was also bleeding from its tail. After removal, the dolphin was observed swimming away into deeper waters.
- Repatriation of four giant turtles and two elongated tortoises to Malaysia. Perhilitan, Malaysia’s wildlife department, partnered with ACRES to ensure the safe return of these endangered reptiles to their protected native habitats.
2016
- Conducted undercover investigation into the welfare conditions of birds in licensed pet shops across Singapore. The findings revealed that 75% were breaching welfare conditions, exposing overcrowding, dirty cages, and sick birds. The findings, shared with the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore, led to stricter inspections and enforcement.
- Campaign Against Online Exotic Pet Trade. ACRES highlighted the illegal sale of exotic pets, such as red-footed tortoises, on platforms like Carousell, raising awareness and encouraging the public to report online wildlife trade.
- Rescue of Seraya, a bonnet macaque and stowaway victim. ACRES rescued Seraya after she was found as a stowaway on a cargo ship from India and provided care and rehabilitation. Due to her age and complications with repatriation documentation, she remains at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre permanently.
2015
- Established the ACRES Animal Crime Investigation Unit (ACIU). The team investigates illegal wildlife trade and animal cruelty, gathering evidence and working with authorities to ensure laws are enforced, while also raising public awareness.
- Conducted the third investigation into illegal tiger parts trade. 153 shops found a sharp decline in tiger parts sales compared to 2010. Findings were submitted to authorities, leading to seizures and highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance against illegal wildlife trade.
- Enforcement on pet shops and farms was tightened following ACRES’ undercover investigation uncovering systemic welfare breaches. Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore conducted inspections, identified lapses, and implemented stricter enforcement, raising animal welfare standards across the industry.
2014
- ACRES appointed project manager for Singapore’s first stray dog sterilisation pilot on Jurong Island. The role involved coordinating government agencies, veterinarians, and volunteers to ensure the programme ran smoothly and humanely.
- ACRES honoured at the Singapore Advocacy Awards. The ceremony also saw founder Louis Ng as Advocate of the Year for his leadership and tireless efforts in championing animal rights.
- The Animals & Birds Act was reformed with ACRES playing a pivotal role. As a key member in the Animal Welfare Legislation Review Committee, ACRES contributed significantly to the discussions and recommendations that led to the Animals & Birds (Amendment) Act 2014 to include higher fines and longer jail terms for first-time offenders, and harsher penalties for repeat offenders.
- ACRES founder Louis Ng enters politics. Louis joined the People’s Action Party, bringing animal welfare into mainstream political discourse. His role in Parliament gave stronger visibility to wildlife protection, pet welfare, and broader systemic reforms for animals in Singapore.
2013
- Launched the Monkey Guards programme, Singapore’s first ethical response to macaque encounters. The approach aimed to address the root causes of such encounters with immediate intervention as well as long-term solutions by community engagement and education.
- Officially opens the ACRES Wildlife Sanctuary. Despite losing much of the original land, ACRES built the sanctuary around existing grounds with the help of volunteers. The sanctuary provided a space for 46 animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, including tortoises and iguanas
2011
- “Let the Dolphins Go” campaign against Resorts World Sentosa intensifies after news of plans to import more dolphins, following the death of two. Thereafter, RWS committed to better marine welfare practices and avoided importing more captive dolphins
2010
- Conducted the second investigation into the illegal trade of tiger parts in Singapore. The investigation revealed that 59 out of 134 jewellery and antique shops surveyed were allegedly selling tiger parts, including claws, teeth, and pieces of skin. This prompted calls for strict enforcement.
2009
- Partial Opening of the front portion of the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre. This included the Volunteer House, Education Centre and Office Building.
- Launched the Humane Education for All Life (HEAL) programme. Through interactive lessons and activities in schools, it encourages empathy and promotes a kinder society.
- Expanded Zoo Animal Welfare efforts in Malaysia. It supported the formation of Malaysia’s first NGO coalition on zoo animal welfare (myZOO), following ACRES’ survey of 39 zoos which revealed widespread welfare issues.
- ACRES was invited to conduct a Zoo Survey of zoos in Thailand. Collaborations continued with various organisations in Thailand on zoo animal welfare issues.
- Campaign success of “Say No to Whale Sharks in Captivity”: Whale sharks excluded from Resorts World Sentosa’s proposals in November 2009.
- Launched “Let the Dolphins Go” campaign. against Resorts World Sentosa in importing 27 wild-caught Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins.
2008
- Launched the “Say No to Whale Sharks in Captivity” campaign against Resorts World Sentosa in importing a whale shark for display. Collaborating with SPCA Singapore, Nature Society (Singapore), and other local and international organisations, the campaign highlighted the negative impacts of removing whale sharks from the wild and the challenges they face in captivity.
- The first Singapore Animal Welfare Symposium. Co-organised by ACRES and the NUS Students’ Animal Welfare Group, the event brought together youth, animal protection groups, and government agencies to share ideas, build partnerships, and address key animal welfare issues, from pet abandonment to welfare of animals in captivity.
- Housewarming held at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre. Donors and supporters were invited to the newly completed grounds for a preview of the centre, guided tours, and a movie screening under the stars
2007
- Major setback in the construction of the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre. Much of the land acquired for the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre in 2006 became unusable after contamination by the contractor.
- Granted Institution of Public Character (IPC) status on 1st June 2007 (Registration no. IPC000559). This recognition allows the public to make tax-deductible donations, reflecting our commitment to strict standards in governance, transparency, and use of funds.
- Launched Endangered Species-Friendly TCM Labelling Scheme, in collaboration with the Singapore TCM Organisations Committee (STOC). TCM shops display the label committed to not using ingredients from endangered wildlife, helping consumers make ethical choices.
2006
- Campaign success: What’s a Polar Bear doing in the tropics. The Singapore Zoo announced that they will be phasing out keeping Arctic animals after Sheba and Inuka pass on.
- ACRES acquires land for Singapore’s first dedicated Wildlife Rescue Centre. 2 hectares of land was off Sungei Tengah, at 91 Jalan Lekar.
- Conducted second investigations into the illegal bear bile trade. Investigations revealed many Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shops offering bear products for sale, prompting enforcement actions under the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act.
2005
- Conducted a detailed study into the welfare of the polar bears and published our report.
- Launched a campaign to end the use of wild animals in shows at The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. ACRES campaigned against the “Spirits of the Rainforest” orangutan show, documenting the unnatural acts performed. The Singapore Zoo ended the show and replaced it with natural, species-appropriate behaviours like swinging and coconut handling.
- Hosted the Asia for Animals Conference 2005. ACRES hosted Singapore’s first international animal welfare conference, with 200+ delegates from 19 countries discussing disaster relief, zoo welfare, stray animal management, rescue centre operations, farm animal welfare, wildlife trade, and NGO communication strategies.
- Investigated the illegal pet trade in Singapore, surveying 100 pet shops and uncovering that 20% were selling prohibited animals. A total of 111 illegally traded animals were recorded, many belonging to species at high risk of extinction (IUCN-listed).
2004
- Discussions with The Singapore Zoo to improve the living conditions of the polar bears (mother and son, Sheba and Inuka). Enclosure upgrades added shade cloth, mist fans, and a small air-conditioned area, but concerns remained about the tropical climate and the bears’ limited, barren space,
- Launched the ACRES 24-Hour Wildlife Crime Hotline to tackle the illegal wildlife trade in Singapore. This initiative provided a confidential channel for the public to report incidents involving the illegal buying, owning, or trading of exotic animals and wildlife products.
- First repatriation of rescued primate Blue, a vervet monkey, to Africa. Kept as a pet for more than five years, Blue began a new life at the Munda Wanga sanctuary in Zambia, where he finally lived his life as a wild monkey with his mate Toni and their young, Indigo and Sapphire.
2003
- Conducted undercover investigations into the illegal trade in tiger parts in Singapore, in collaboration with The New Paper. Investigations exposed the illicit market, highlighting violations of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulations and local laws enforcing them.
- Cheetah petting sessions at The Singapore Zoo. ACRES raised welfare concerns about stress caused by forced human contact. Singapore Zoo discontinued the sessions.
- Launched “Suffering, Not Smiling” campaign against Dolphin Lagoon. Forced to perform unnatural acts and contact sessions with humans. Wild dolphins roam huge areas, and the Dolphin Lagoon is just 0.0003% of their natural range.
2001
- ACRES was registered as a society on 24th May 2001 (Registration No.: 0176/2001). It was registered under the Charities Act on 11th January 2005 (Registration No.: 1849).
- Conducted the first investigations into the illegal bear bile trade in Singapore. Reports from Chinese bear farmers between 1999 and 2000 indicated that Singapore was a destination for illegally exported bear bile products used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Annual Reports
You may view or download our annual reports and audited financial statements here. These reports provide an overview of our work, impact, and financial accountability over the years.
For any questions or clarifications regarding the reports, please feel free to contact us at info@acres.org.sg.