KUALA LUMPUR: The adult wild male elephant dubbed "Sulong" that drew attention after being spotted along the Gerik-Jeli section of the East-West Highway (JRTB) recently has now moved into a forested area in Kelantan.
Various social media posts shared on Thursday (Aug 27) claimed that the injured elephant has since entered the forest area.
Internet users have been sharing support and concern over the elephant's journey that allegedly covered an over 100km trek back to Kelantan.
The elephant is believed to have originated from the village in Gua Musang where it previously roamed before being captured.
Sulong recently drew public attention after a video showing the injured animal walking along the highway went viral on social media.
There were claims on social media that Sulong originated from Chalil, Gua Musang and that the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) relocated him to Gerik to prevent conflicts with residents, including damage to crops.
In a statement on Tuesday (Aug 25), Perhilitan said it was aware of the situation and closely monitoring the adult male wild elephant.
"The elephant has continued to return to the highway despite being herded back into the forest on several occasions.
"We will continue guiding operations twice daily, during the day and at night.
"The elephant's movements and condition are being monitored.
"The elephant was found to have sustained an injury to its right front leg.
“However, the wound has started to dry and is showing signs of recovery," it read.
It said apart from the leg injury the elephant's physical condition and behaviour remain normal and it is still able to feed and move well.
"Field personnel have been placed at heightened alert and a veterinary assessment will be obtained to determine the elephant’s physical condition, the extent of its injury and whether further action is necessary.
"Motorists using the East-West Highway are advised to take precautionary measures and to slow down when nearing the Titiwangsa Rest and Recreation (R&R) stop.
“Motorists must follow the instructions of enforcement officers and Perhilitan personnel when passing through monitoring areas.
“They are also advised not to stop to take photographs or videos of the elephant, as this could disrupt traffic flow," it said.
It said feeding the elephant or leaving food for it along the highway is strictly prohibited.
"Motorists are reminded not to stop or leave their vehicles if a wild animal, including elephants, is by the roadside, even if it is not displaying aggressive behaviour.
"The wild animals should never be provoked.
"Those using the highway, particularly the route around Gerik and the Titiwangsa R&R, are urged to remain vigilant, stay calm and cooperate with the authorities to ensure everyone’s safety.
"Complaints can be channelled through Perhilitan’s hotline at 1-800-88-5151 or via the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) through its official website," it said.
