KELAT is one of three Asian elephants – the others being Dara and Amoi – relocated from the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, in March.
Social media users were upset when photos and videos showing Kelat sporting a broken left tusk started circulating earlier this month.
Malaysian mahouts travelling with the animals reportedly treated what was described as a mishap during Kelat's adjustment period, reinforcing the broken tusk with a steel ring.
However, there were online claims that this resulted from animal exploitation.
The matter was compounded when subsequently shared images showed Kelat's right tusk also appearing shorter.
This prompted a greater outcry and an online petition.
But was there actually animal cruelty in Kelat's case as claimed?
Verdict:
FALSE
The trimming of Kelat's right tusk was part of veterinary treatment and conservation management, says the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan).
In a statement on Monday (April 13), Perhilitan said the trimming was carried out to balance out the damage to Kelat's left tusk.
"Trimming was also carried out on the right tusk... to prevent structural imbalance that could place a strain on the head and jaw.
"Such an imbalance could result in Kelat’s discomfort, increase the risk of injuries, and impact its natural movements, eating habits and social interactions," it added.
Perhilitan said the procedure was conducted based on clinical assessment by experts, with priority given to the animal’s welfare.
"The procedures were done in a controlled manner, using an approach that minimised physiological stress on the animal.
"Continuous monitoring was also carried out to ensure the elephant recovers optimally," it said.
Perhilitan added that it will continue monitoring Kelat’s condition together with the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo.
