Dara, Amoi and Kelat show steady weight gain under mahout supervision

TAIPING – Three Malaysian elephants, Dara, Amoi and Kelat, now housed at Tennoji Zoo, are reported to be in good health and showing steady weight gain.

According to the latest health monitoring records, Kelat recorded an increase of 440kg, from 2,360kg to 2,800kg, followed by Dara, who gained 215kg (1,985kg to 2,200kg), and Amoi, who put on 200kg (1,280kg to 1,480kg).

Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) president Mohamed Akmal Dahalan said the development reflects good health, nutrition and daily care, as well as a high standard of welfare in line with best practices in the management of captive wildlife.

“As a proactive measure, the council will provide weekly reports on the condition of Dara, Amoi and Kelat based on official information from Tennoji Zoo.

“These reports will be shared with stakeholders and the public to ensure accurate and verified information is disseminated,” he said in a statement here today.

The three elephants are under continuous monitoring by veterinarians and experienced handlers (mahouts), covering aspects such as physical health, nutrition, behaviour and habitat conditions. - Photo: Taiping Municipal Council

He added that the three elephants are under continuous monitoring by veterinarians and experienced handlers (mahouts), covering aspects such as physical health, nutrition, behaviour and habitat conditions.

He said the habitat facilities provided meet international standards, including adequate space, structured daily care systems and enrichment programmes to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviour.

“MPT will continue to liaise with the management of Tennoji Zoo from time to time to obtain the latest updates and ensure that animal welfare remains a priority,” he said.

In a related development, Mohamed Akmal said the elephants were placed at the zoo under an international cooperation agreement signed between Zoo Taiping & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo on May 19 and Oct 6, 2022.

He said the agreement spans 25 years, noting that similar programmes have long been implemented by zoos worldwide.

“All parties are advised to refer to official sources for accurate information and to avoid interpretations that may lead to confusion, factual inconsistencies and inaccurate perceptions regarding the welfare of Dara, Amoi and Kelat,” he said.