Response on the parliamentary select committee’s proposed visit to Osaka’s Tennoji Zoo in Japan

THIS is a significant development and reflects how the issue surrounding Dara, Amoi, and Kelat has evolved beyond public discourse on social media into a matter receiving formal parliamentary attention and scrutiny.

The decision by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Environment, Science and Plantation Industries to consider a visit to Japan demonstrates that the voices of the rakyat, civil society advocacy groups, wildlife experts, and concerned Malaysians are being taken seriously at the national level. The fact that Parliament itself is seeking an independent assessment indicates that concerns regarding the welfare, adaptation, health condition, and long-term suitability of the elephants at Tennoji Zoo remain valid and unresolved.

It is also encouraging that the committee intends to review the agreement between Taiping Zoo and Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo in order to better understand the responsibilities, obligations, and commitments of all parties involved. Transparency, accountability, and ethical responsibility are crucial in matters involving wildlife welfare, particularly when it concerns highly intelligent, emotional, and endangered animals such as Asian elephants.

The concerns expressed by Malaysians are not based solely on emotion, but are increasingly supported by scientific understanding of elephant psychology, social behaviour, environmental stress, and adaptation challenges. Asian elephants possess strong emotional bonds, memory, and social intelligence. Sudden separation from familiar surroundings, tropical climate, caretakers, and established social environments can have significant physical and psychological impacts on their wellbeing.

At the same time, this parliamentary initiative should be viewed constructively. A fact-finding mission can help establish clearer evidence, reduce speculation, and ensure that any future decisions are guided by professional assessment, scientific evidence, and humane considerations.

Nevertheless, we strongly believe that the delegation should also include a group of independent Malaysian elephant and wildlife experts, veterinarians, zoologists, animal scientists, and conservation specialists to independently verify the facts, assess the condition of the elephants, and provide objective professional findings.

Ultimately, Malaysians simply want assurance that Dara, Amoi, and Kelat are safe, healthy, properly cared for, and treated with dignity and compassion. Their welfare must always remain the highest priority.

NEOW CHOO SEONG