T’ganu oil palm farmers hit by jumbo problem

KEMAMAN: More than 10 oil palm farmers in Kampung Darat Air Putih here claimed to have suffered losses of between RM3,000 and RM20,000 after wild elephants ravaged their farms.

They claimed the destruction on the 30ha land started in July and had worsened lately.

One of them, Mohd Rudzi Abdul Razak, 32, said his hope of reaping the fruits of 100 trees he planted three years ago were dashed.

“I am so sad. I have put so much effort only to find my trees destroyed,” he said.

Mohd Rudzi said it was believed at least three elephants were involved based on the footprints that were found near the area.

Another farmer, Mohd Yusof Sulong, 52, lamented that 70 of his trees which were already bearing fruit were also destroyed.

State Perhilitan director Yusoff Shariff said the department would take action swiftly.

“We will either catch the elephants and relocate them or chase them far into the jungle,” he said. — Bernama