By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: The issue surrounding the transfer of three elephants from Zoo Taiping & Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo has reached the highest level of government.
Perak Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng said a meeting had been held with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to present the latest developments on the matter.
She said the discussion placed particular emphasis on the welfare of the three elephants involved; Dara, Amoi and Kelat.
It also touched on the importance of maintaining good diplomatic relations and honouring commitments and agreements made between the parties involved.
“The public’s concern over this issue is greatly appreciated. However, it is important to view the matter holistically based on facts and current developments,” she said in a statement.
At the same time, she stressed that all parties must adopt a careful approach in every action, with animal welfare as the top priority.
She added that continuous monitoring must also be carried out to ensure the well-being of the elephants throughout the relocation process.
Further updates on the issue will be announced by the relevant authorities from time to time.
The relocation of the three elephants from Malaysia to Osaka, Japan, has drawn widespread attention since early March 2026, particularly regarding animal welfare and habitat suitability.
The transfer is understood to be part of a conservation breeding cooperation programme between the two countries.
However, the move has faced strong criticism on social media over several concerns.
Among them are the differences in climate and fears that the elephants may struggle to adapt to Japan’s colder weather.
There are also reports suggesting the elephants are being sent permanently, raising unease among animal lovers who prefer they remain in their natural habitat.
Some have also questioned the expertise of Japanese zoos in managing Asian elephants compared to the existing local expertise.
