TAIPING: The Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) has dismissed allegations that the international conservation programme involving three elephants from the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari (ZTNS) sent to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, included commercial transactions or payments between the parties.
MPT president Mohamed Akmal Dahalan clarified that the arrangement is strictly a zoo-to-zoo conservation agreement, with no sale, purchase, or financial exchange involved.
“The use of the term “B2B (business-to-business)” circulating on social media is inaccurate and does not reflect the nature of the agreement,” he said in a statement on Saturda (May 9).
Mohamed Akmal was responding to public concern over the relocation of Dara, Amoi and Kelat, three elephants that are highly regarded by Malaysians.
He acknowledged that the reaction stems from genuine public concern for animal welfare.
“The programme is carried out in line with Malaysia’s Standard Guidelines for Zoo Management issued by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), which supports conservation initiatives such as international animal exchanges, captive breeding, and ex-situ conservation programmes.
“The transfer process complied fully with the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716) and all related regulatory requirements.
“Prior to the relocation, representatives from MPT and the zoo conducted site inspection in Osaka from Oct 6 to 10, 2022, to assess the suitability of Tennoji Zoo’s facilities,” he said.
He added that all necessary approvals, permits, and documentation, including export applications and coordination with Japanese authorities were obtained before the elephants were sent.
“Animal welfare remains the top priority throughout the programme, with ZTNS maintaining ongoing communication with Tennoji Zoo and relevant agencies to ensure proper care standards are upheld.
“MPT is also open to cooperating with any relevant authorities, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), should further review or investigation into the programme be required,” he added.
