SHAH ALAM - Three Malaysian elephants currently living at Tennoji Zoo will remain in Japan for the next 25 years under an international cooperation agreement signed between the Japanese zoo and Zoo Taiping and Night Safari in 2022.
The elephants - Dara, Amoi and Kelat - according to recent reports, are said to be in good health and under continuous supervision by veterinarians and experienced mahouts.
In a statement, the Taiping Municipal Council said the agreement between Tennoji Zoo and Zoo Taiping & Night Safari was formalised on May 19 and Oct 6, 2022.
“This agreement is for a period of 25 years. Programme like this have long been implemented by zoos around the world.
“Based on current information from the management of Tennoji Zoo, all three elephants are in good condition and are continuously monitored by veterinarians and experienced animal keepers (mahouts),” the statement read.
According to the council, the monitoring process includes the elephants’ physical health, nutrition, behaviour and habitat conditions to ensure optimum welfare standards are maintained.
The facilities at the zoo include sufficient living space, organised daily care systems and enrichment programmes aimed at encouraging the animals’ natural behaviour in accordance with international standards.
Taiping Municipal Council also revealed that all three elephants have recorded steady weight increases since being placed at the zoo.
“Based on the latest health monitoring records from Tennoji Zoo, all three elephants, namely Dara, Amoi and Kelat, have shown consistent weight gain.
“Kelat’s weight increased by 440kg, from 2,360kg to 2,800kg, Dara by 215kg from 1,985kg to 2,200kg and Amoi by 200kg from 1,280kg to 1,480kg.
“This development reflects good and controlled health, nutrition and daily animal care, while also showing that animal welfare is at a high level and complies with best practices in the management of wild animals in captivity,” the statement said.
As part of efforts to maintain transparency, the council said it will issue weekly updates on the condition of the elephants based on official reports received from Tennoji Zoo.
These reports will be shared with stakeholders and the public to ensure accurate and verified information delivery.
“The council will also continue direct communication with the management of Tennoji Zoo from time to time to obtain the latest developments and ensure animal welfare remains a priority.
“The council is also reviewing a memorandum received recently and will provide an official response in accordance with current procedures and regulations,” Taiping Municipal Council said.