Wild Elephants Given A Second Chance Through Johor Translocation Operation

KLUANG, July 24 (Bernama) -- A herd of wild elephants, once seen as a threat to local communities, is being given a second chance through a translocation effort by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN).

In a coordinated operation this week, four female elephants, including a calf, were sedated and safely relocated from a rubber plantation in Kampung Sri Lukut, marking the start of a broader conservation mission in Kluang. This effort is part of an integrated operation launched on July 14, the first such initiative in Johor this year.

Assisting in the operation were Abot and Sanum, two gajah denak (trained elephants) from the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, Pahang, guided by their handlers to help calm and lead the captured elephants.

“Gajah denak play a crucial role and typically work in pairs. They not only lead, but offer psychological reassurance that prevents panic and resistance,” said Johor PERHILITAN director Aminuddin Jamin.

So far, nine wild elephants have been captured in the Kluang operation. Four were relocated two days ago, with two elephants moved during each subsequent session. One elephant has already been transferred to the Johor Elephant Sanctuary (JES).

The operation is supported by satellite collars, each costing RM30,000 and drone surveillance to track herd movement.

Over 30 personnel from PERHILITAN, JES and Kuala Gandah were involved in the field operation, along with a dedicated veterinary team.

Johor PERHILITAN veterinary officer Dr Suliza Abd Wahab, who oversaw tranquilisation and post-capture care, views the elephants as patients rather than just wildlife.

She explained that sedative doses are carefully tailored, with capture-phase doses reaching 20cc and reduced amounts used during transport or release.

“At the release site, higher doses are often required because there are no trained elephants to help calm them. Without proper sedation, they can become aggressive,” she said.

Each relocation can cost up to RM50,000, covering transportation, logistics, food and veterinary care. Medication alone ranges from RM350 to RM6,000 per elephant.

While some have criticised the process as inhumane, JES head Azrul Abd Manan defended the operation as necessary and ethical.

“These are wild animals, not pets. When they enter villages, they damage crops and scare residents. Relocation to safer, protected habitats is the best solution, for both the elephants and people,” he said.

He added that elephants are being forced into conflict due to shrinking forest habitats, not by choice.

“To many, they’re a nuisance. But we see them as victims of habitat loss. This effort gives them a real second chance.”

-- BERNAMA