The 2 distinct religions that are present in S.E.A are Buddhism and Hinduism (South-East Asian Religions, n.d.). Hinduism is considered an animistic religion that believes in the fact that specific Gods have animistic components and they are manifested from animals. As you can see from the images below, some of these Gods take after the body of an elephant.

Courtesy of Google Images (labeled for noncommercial reuse)

Courtesy of Google Images (labeled for noncommercial reuse)

Hence, perhaps people who believe in Hinduism have a stronger appeal towards protecting these majestic animals due to their religion.