June 26, 2026
World
World
PARIS, June 26 — Europe’s ongoing heatwave has intensified, with record-breaking temperatures straining health systems, disrupting daily life and prompting a series of emergency measures across the continent.
KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 — The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) is actively monitoring the welfare and condition of three Malaysian Asian elephants currently housed at Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, following their relocation in March.
Deputy Minister Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh said the elephants — Dara, Amoi and Kelat — are part of a 25-year ex-situ conservation partnership between the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari (ZTNS) and Tennoji Zoo.
He said that prior to the transfer, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) conducted detailed physical and psychological assessments to ensure the receiving facility met international wildlife management standards.
To support their adjustment, seven Perhilitan mahouts accompanied the elephants on a rotational basis for two months starting in March. As part of continued oversight, two additional mahouts were deployed from June 1 to June 30 to ensure a smooth adaptation process.
He said this in the Dewan Rakyat during the Special Chamber session, responding to a question from Young Syefura Othman (PH-Bentong) regarding government efforts to monitor wildlife sent overseas and records of previously exported elephants.
In reply to a supplementary question on public and NGO calls for the elephants to be brought back, Syed Ibrahim said the government prioritises adherence to factual records, legal frameworks and diplomatic relations with Japan.
He added that any further decisions would depend on formal negotiations under the master agreement between ZTNS and Tennoji Zoo.
On suggestions to allow independent observers or NGOs to visit, he said NRES is open to facilitating such arrangements if there is mutual agreement between both zoos and in accordance with contractual obligations.
Addressing claims that 19 elephants had previously been exported, Syed Ibrahim said the figures were unofficial, stressing that Perhilitan records show only 10 elephants have been sent abroad since 1977. — Bernama
