IPOH: The three Malaysian elephants that were relocated to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, are expected to remain there despite public pressure for their return.
Perak local government committee chairman Sandrea Ng said there is a need to ensure good diplomatic relations by respecting the commitments and agreements that had been inked regarding the elephants.
“The concern from the public is appreciated.
“At the same time, it is important for us to look at it comprehensively, based on facts and current developments,” she said on her Facebook page yesterday.
Ng said she had met Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday, where the topic of the elephants, named Dara, Amoi and Kelat, was raised during their meeting.
“Emphasis was also placed on ensuring all relevant parties adopt a careful approach in every action, with priority given to animal welfare.
“This includes continuous monitoring to ensure their condition remains at a good level,” she added.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Anwar stressed that the welfare of the three elephants must be prioritised by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES).
Anwar said any decision and action must be carried out based on facts while taking into account the best welfare of the elephants.
It was previously reported that Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the three elephants should be brought back to Malaysia if their relocation is found to be no longer aligned with conservation principles, wildlife welfare and current sensitivities.
There have been public concerns over the welfare and living conditions of the elephants that were sent to Japan from Taiping Zoo and Night Safari under a “sister zoo” conservation and breeding agreement.
