May 19, 2026
World
World
Brazil star Neymar has been recalled to the national team for the World Cup, marking a dramatic return after almost three years away from international duty.
MERSING, May 19 — The return of three Malaysian elephants — Dara, Amoi and Kelat — from Tennoji Zoo cannot be expedited, as the process involves a number of procedures and agreements that must be carefully observed, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh said.
He stressed that the animals’ welfare and safety remain the top priority to ensure their journey home is handled properly and without risk.
“This is not something that can be decided today and implemented tomorrow. There is also an existing agreement between Zoo Taiping and Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo.
“The matter requires thorough consideration and evaluation. As for when they may be brought back, I am unable to provide a timeline as I do not have the full details,” he said after officiating the Biodiversity Exploration Programme within the Central Forest Spine ecological network at the Lenggor Forest Reserve and Mersing Forest Reserve, held at Mersing Polytechnic today.
Syed Ibrahim said the ministry has tasked Zoo Taiping and the Taiping Municipal Council with overseeing all matters related to the elephants, including any necessary follow-up actions.
Earlier, Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Arthur Joseph Kurup said suggestions from various groups, including non-governmental organisations, to repatriate the elephants deserve serious attention.
The three elephants were sent to Tennoji Zoo as part of a conservation partnership, but recent concerns over their welfare have sparked renewed calls for their return to Malaysia.
Separately, Syed Ibrahim said the five-day biodiversity expedition, which began yesterday, involves 120 participants comprising university researchers, government officials, NGO representatives and environmental experts.
He said the programme aims to deepen understanding of forest connectivity, ecological corridors and habitat functions, while strengthening efforts to conserve biodiversity through more integrated and sustainable management.
— Bernama
