KOTA KINABALU: Sabah will not allow its endangered Bornean pygmy elephants to be sent abroad, regardless of how attractive the proposals may seem, says state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
She revealed that several countries had shown interest in “borrowing” the elephants for their zoos after visiting Sabah’s elephant sanctuaries, but she firmly declined the requests.
ALSO READ: Sabah government backs wildlife film to boost tourism
"They have made proposals, especially to our wildlife agencies, requesting to ‘borrow’ our elephants.
“I said no, not at the moment. Imagine if we allow our elephants to be sent to foreign zoos... and one of them dies there or is killed. I would be deeply saddened," she told a press conference on Monday (June 23).
"When one died, I was heartbroken for days.
“I simply cannot bear to see our elephants sent abroad. We must protect our wildlife here, especially for our children.
“Our elephants are not just unique to Borneo, they are part of our identity. They must be protected here, in their natural home," she said.
ALSO READ: Tip off authorities on jumbo killings, Sabah villagers urged
Liew added that the conservation and protection of Sabah’s elephant population, estimated at between 1,500 and 2,000, is being managed under the Borneo Elephant Action Plan (BEAP) 2020–2029, a 10-year strategy approved by the Sabah Cabinet in 2020.
“We are fortunate to have this unique subspecies of elephant in Borneo.
"So we must stay committed to preserving them and ensuring they (have) a healthy and safe environment,” she said.
The BEAP outlines long-term strategies to ensure the survival of the species, including habitat protection, conflict mitigation, veterinary care and rehabilitation programmes.
“We are now in the mid-phase of the plan and have made significant progress. One of the key aspects is the care programme for rescued or injured elephants.
"When an elephant is injured, we bring it back to the sanctuary, treat it, and nurse it back to health,” she said.
ALSO READ: Snare traps remain a threat to Sabah wildlife
Liew stressed the importance of having skilled veterinarians, proper nutrition and a supportive environment to ensure successful elephant rehabilitation.
“When they are ready to return to the wild, we will release them."
Liew, who recently visited elephant centres in Sandakan, Lok Kawi and Kinabatangan, said the state government is working closely with the Sabah Wildlife Department and conservation groups to upgrade facilities, improve enforcement and boost public awareness.
The Bornean pygmy elephant is a rare subspecies of Asian elephant found primarily in Sabah.
It is the smallest of all Asian elephants, distinguished by a shorter stature, relatively larger ears, longer tails, and a gentle temperament.
Its unique genetic lineage, believed to be isolated from other Asian elephants for around 300,000 years, adds to the animal's ecological significance.
However, the species remains endangered because of ongoing threats such as habitat loss, fragmentation and human-wildlife conflict.
