PETALING JAYA: The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) has clarified that the use of elephants during a community parade in Kampung Pasir Tumboh, Kelantan, was granted special permission.
Peninsular Malaysia Perhilitan director-general Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim issued a statement to address public anger online about the elephants - Sanum and Mekna - appearing in public outside their natural habitat.
“On May 25, we received an application for an exhibition of elephants and wildlife in conjunction with the Madani community programme at Kampung Pasir Tumboh, Kota Bharu, Kelantan from the Kelantan state director of Lands and Mines Department," said Abdul Kadir.
“Accordingly, the special permit application committee meeting was held on June 16 to review and approve the application based on the established standard operating procedure (SOP).
“Health checks on the elephants and the selection of elephants brought to the event were carried out by Perhilitan in compliance with the SOP.
“Welfare assessments of the elephants were conducted before, during, and after the programme, covering transportation, preparation, and use of the elephants in the event,” said Abdul Kadir in the statement on Tuesday (June 30).
“We are aware and concerned about the feedback from civil society and Malaysians in general regarding the welfare of the elephants raised in this matter.
“We will establish a Special Task Force to study and improve existing laws, SOPs, and procedures together with stakeholders," he said.
Perhilitan also added that they would refer to the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry's integrity unit and the governance investigation division of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to help strengthen the existing SOPs and procedures comprehensively.
“As the department entrusted with the protection and conservation of wildlife, we remain committed to preserving the nation’s wildlife heritage and continuously improving based on feedback received from the public," he said.
He also urged the public to share only verified and accurate information to avoid causing confusion.
Complaints can be lodged via the department's hotline at 1-800-88-5151 or through the Public Complaints Management System (SISPA) on Perhilitan's official website at www.wildlife.gov.my.
