Kelat’s condition due to natural ‘musth’, says Taiping council head in refuting allegations of mistreatment

IPOH: The Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) has dismissed allegations surrounding the condition and treatment of male elephant Kelat at Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, saying the animal’s behavioural and physical changes are part of a normal biological process known as "musth".

Its president Mohamed Akmal Dahalan said the changes observed in Kelat, including increased sensitivity and aggression, were linked to hormonal fluctuations experienced by mature male elephants during the musth phase.

He said zoo keepers and veterinarians are closely monitoring the elephant throughout the period, with several special management measures already in place.

“These include daily monitoring of Kelat’s behaviour and aggression levels, regular veterinary examinations, controlled isolation for safety purposes, and checks on food and water intake as well as faecal and urine output.

“Environmental management efforts are also being carried out to minimise stress and external stimulation, alongside continuous enrichment programmes to support the elephant’s welfare and maintain stable behaviour,” he said in a statement Thursday (May 14).

The elephants – Dara, 14, Amoi, nine and Kelat, 20, collectively known as DAK – are at the centre of growing calls for their return from Tennoji Zoo in Osaka to Malaysia over welfare concerns.

Akmal also denied claims that Kelat is suffering from eye-related health issues, describing the allegations as inaccurate.

He explained that visible changes around the elephant’s eye area are caused by swelling of the temporal gland during the musth phase, which may create slight pressure around the eyes and is considered a common physiological response among mature male elephants.

He said Tennoji Zoo had engaged Elephant Business Inc to provide staff training in elephant management and handling using the protected contact approach, a recognised safety method aimed at improving animal care and veterinary procedures while prioritising elephant welfare.

The council also rejected allegations of “forced breeding”, stressing that such practices had never taken place and are strictly prohibited under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between both parties.

However, MPT confirmed that a fragment of Kelat’s tusk had recently detached naturally inside the enclosure due to daily use.

“Veterinary examinations found no serious injuries or bleeding, and that Kelat remains in stable condition, with the affected area being monitored regularly to prevent infection or complications.

“We will continue to cooperate closely with Tennoji Zoo and other relevant parties to ensure the welfare, health and management of the elephants remain at the highest standard,” he added.

Akmal said to ensure transparency, accurate dissemination of information, and to reduce misunderstandings or speculation, MPT would provide regular updates to the public on the latest developments.

He said overall, the condition of all the elephants remains stable and they are under close monitoring by the zoo management and veterinary team.

“Daily observations show that their health condition, appetite, behaviour and daily activities are in good condition, including positive weight gain since being placed at Tennoji Zoo.

“Weight records indicate an increase to 235kg for Dara and 220kg for Amoi, while Kelat's weight increased to 460kg.

“Environmental enrichment programmes, nutrition management, and Protected Contact handling training are also being continuously implemented to ensure the elephants’ welfare and management remain at the highest level,” he added. - THE STAR