Singapore is currently in the midst of a heated controversy surrounding Ivory Lane, an online store that specializes in selling ivory jewelry. The store has come under fire from animal rights activists who condemn the use of ivory from elephants that have been subjected to what they describe as inhumane treatment. Despite the international ban on ivory trade in 1990, Ivory Lane continues to offer a range of products, including earrings priced at Sg$160 ($120) and necklaces priced at Sg$800 ($585).
Although the sale of ivory obtained before the ban is technically legal in Singapore, the public outcry against Ivory Lane shows no signs of slowing down. The store’s Facebook page features images of women flaunting their ivory jewelry, accompanied by the controversial caption, “Ivory is a secret desire for most girls.” This provocative statement has sparked outrage among consumers, leading to a flood of comments calling for the store to be shut down.
The demand for ivory, particularly in Asia, has played a significant role in the alarming decline of elephant populations globally. Animal welfare advocates argue that purchasing ivory perpetuates the cruel cycle of animal suffering and exploitation. Jason Baker, a spokesperson for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), strongly condemns the sale of ivory, regardless of its origins, as it normalizes the idea of harming animals for the sake of fashion.
In response to the backlash, Ivy Chng, the owner of Ivory Lane, has defended her business practices by emphasizing the legality of the ivory she sells. She claims that the ivory is ethically sourced from the natural habitats of central Africa and is of the highest quality. Despite Chng’s assertions, the controversy surrounding Ivory Lane’s ivory jewelry sales continues to spark intense debates and discussions in Singapore.
For more information on the issue of ivory trade and its impact on elephant populations, please visit World Wildlife Fund and National Geographic.
