IPOH: The three elephants from Taiping Zoo and Night Safari, now residing at Tennoji Zoo in the Japanese city of Osaka, have shown significant weight gains and are being closely monitored by zoo authorities to ensure their continued good health.
Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) president Mohamed Akmal Dahalan said Amoi, nine, Dara, 14, and Kelat, 20, are healthy and continue to receive proper care.
He said all three elephants have recorded consistent weight gains since being transferred to the Japanese zoo on March 10.
Amoi gained 200kg, increasing from 1,280kg to 1,480kg; Dara gained 215kg, from 1,985kg to 2,200kg; and Kelat is 440kg heavier, from 2,360kg to 2,800kg.
“The development reflects good health, nutrition and daily care, with animal welfare maintained at a high standard in line with best practices for the management of wild animals in captivity,” Mohamed Akmal said in a statement yesterday.
He said the elephants are being continuously monitored by veterinary experts and experienced caretakers under an international cooperation agreement between the two zoos.
He said the habitat facilities provided include sufficient space, a structured daily care system, and enrichment programmes designed to stimulate natural behaviour in line with international standards.
The statement was issued in response to a peaceful demonstration concerning the welfare and living conditions of the elephants sent to Japan on March 10 under a “sister zoo” conservation and breeding agreement.
Calls have since been made for the elephants to be brought back to Malaysia.
Mohamed Akmal said the agreement involving the transfer of the elephants was signed on May 19, 2022, and Oct 6, 2022, under a 25-year term.
He added that the council would issue weekly reports on the condition of the elephants based on official updates from Tennoji Zoo as part of its commitment to transparency.
“MPT will also continue direct communication with the zoo management from time to time to obtain the latest updates and ensure the welfare of the animals remains a priority,” said Mohamed Akmal.
He also advised the public to refer to official sources for accurate information and avoid speculation or misleading interpretations regarding the elephants’ welfare.
