TANGKAK, March 12 (Bernama) -- The government has assured that the welfare of three elephants sent from Malaysia to Japan will continue to be closely monitored.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the ministry understands the concerns of Malaysians regarding Dara, Amoi and Kelat, who were sent to Japan on March 10.
“We understand the concerns of the public and netizens about the suitability of the animals being in a country with a different climate.
“However, the transfer was carried out after several years of careful study and preparation to ensure the animals’ welfare is safeguarded,” he told reporters after officiating the Community Ranger Appointment Ceremony and flagging off the 2026 Integrated Khazanah Operation for Peninsular Malaysia at Dataran Ledang here today.
Arthur said the transfer of the elephants is part of a conservation plan initiated more than 10 years ago through an agreement between the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo.
The agreement aims to strengthen breeding efforts and increase the elephant population through the sharing of expertise and the transfer of conservation technology.
“Conservation technology in Japan is quite advanced and we want to observe and benefit from the transfer of knowledge through this cooperation to help increase the elephant population in our country,” he said.
Arthur said before the three elephants - one male and two females - were sent to Osaka, the ministry conducted studies and a strict evaluation process over several years to ensure the zoo’s facilities met Malaysia’s requirements.
He added that the zoo in Osaka had also upgraded its facilities, including veterinary facilities, before the elephants were sent.
“Three mahouts from Malaysia were also sent to accompany and help the elephants adapt to the new environment for several months before the adjustment process is fully completed.
“At the same time, the ministry will issue media updates from time to time to inform the public of the elephants’ latest condition,” he said.
Earlier, the transfer of the three elephants from Malaysia to Japan reportedly triggered a wave of sad reactions among social media users.
-- BERNAMA
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