(ANN/VIETNAM NEWS) – The red-shanked douc, an endemic species found in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, has been selected as the mascot for the 13th ASEAN School Games, set to commence in Vietnam this May.
Notably, the Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang hosts the world’s largest population of this vibrant primate.
Listed as endangered in Vietnam’s Red Book and critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the red-shanked douc faces severe threats from hunting, habitat destruction, and the illegal pet trade.
Da Nang, the event’s host city, is gearing up to welcome approximately 1,500 athletes and coaches from 10 ASEAN countries.
Competitions will span six sports: swimming, basketball, badminton, athletics, pencak silat and vovinam.
Under the banner “Connect and Shine,” the games aim to foster unity and showcase talent among the youth of Southeast Asia.
The opening and closing ceremonies are scheduled to take place at the Tien Son Sports Complex on May 1 and June 9, respectively, promising a celebration of sport and culture.
