On January 14, 2026, Save Vietnam’s Wildlife (SVW) attended an international scientific seminar hosted by the Ninh Binh Provincial People's Committee to identify the "outstanding universal values" of the Tam Chuc – Van Long complex, supporting the development of a nomination dossier for UNESCO World Heritage recognition.

At the seminar, Mr. Le Khac Quyet, Deputy Director of Save Vietnam’s Wildlife, participated in discussions and presented a proposal to the leaders of the Ninh Binh Provincial People's Committee, as well as domestic and international scientists and experts, to designate the "Delacour's langur as the natural symbol of Ninh Binh province." This proposal is based on practical experience and international precedents: many countries have successfully selected an iconic animal species associated with their national identity and natural heritage, such as the giant panda in China, the kangaroo in Australia, and the elephant in Thailand. Meanwhile, the Delacour's langur is a primate species endemic to Vietnam, intrinsically linked to the limestone mountain ecosystem—a landscape that defines Ninh Binh's identity.

According to research by Mr. Trinh Dinh Hoang, there are currently only about 534–544 individuals left in the wild, with approximately 90% living in Ninh Binh, making the province pivotal to the conservation of this critically endangered primate.

Selecting the Delacour's langur as a natural symbol will help to:

• Increase local recognition and pride
• Elevate Ninh Binh's image for eco-tourism and nature-based travel
• Open pathways for sustainable economic development linked to conservation and local communities

Save Vietnam’s Wildlife believes that the Delacour's langur is truly worthy of representing Ninh Binh's natural heritage, bridging conservation, culture, and sustainable development for both today and the future. If you were to visit Ninh Binh, would you like to see the Delacour's langur in the wild and purchase local handicrafts featuring this iconic animal?