IPOH: Phase One of the Perak Elephant Sanctuary (PES) project has begun this year.
State science, environment and green technology committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said works are expected to be completed by the end of 2030.
He said the total cost for Phase One is RM52.14mil.
"For now, preliminary works such as survey and utility mapping, as well as soil investigation, have already commenced.
"These works are being implemented by the Public Works Department (JKR) through the appointment of consultants, with a cost of RM500,000," he said in his winding-up speech at the state assembly sitting here on Monday (April 20).
Teh said the first phase would focus on the development of core infrastructure, including the administrative complex, elephant enclosures and staff quarters.
Phase Two involves the development of ecotourism facilities.
He said the construction site is located at Batu 11 of the East-West Highway within the Hulu Perak District.
"This area was selected due to its strategic location near the natural habitat of wild elephants, making it suitable as a conservation and rehabilitation centre for the species.
"An area of 79.74ha has been gazetted for the project," he added.
Teh said the gazetted land reflects the state government’s commitment to wildlife conservation efforts as well as the development of sustainable conservation-based ecotourism.
He said the project is also expected to become a new landmark for the state as a centre for education, research, and tourism focused on elephant conservation and raising public awareness on the importance of environmental protection.
Teh said the government would continue to ensure that this project would be well-planned, and in a systematic manner, taking into account all technical requirements, compliance with specifications and standards, as well as cost-effectiveness and implementation timelines.
"At the same time, special attention is also given to its impact on wildlife habitat conservation, particularly in ensuring the sustainability of the elephant ecosystem and environmental balance.
"The government will also ensure that the development benefits the local community through community development initiatives, socio-economic improvement, and inclusive and continuous engagement with stakeholders," he said.
