PN Taiping calls for transparent probe into elephant transfer to Japan
The elephants, moved from Zoo Taiping and Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo Osaka, are now at the centre of public concern over alleged abuse of power and governance issues linked to the transfer process.
SHAH ALAM - Calls are growing for a full and transparent investigation into the relocation of three elephants from Malaysia to Japan, as Perikatan Nasional (PN) Taiping presses the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to scrutinise the case involving Dara, Amoi and Kelat (DAK).
The elephants, moved from Zoo Taiping and Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo Osaka, are now at the centre of public concern over alleged abuse of power and governance issues linked to the transfer process.
PN Taiping coordinator Maizatulazwa Abdul Rahim said the party supports the opening of an official investigation and wants it carried out without compromise.
“I welcome MACC’s action in opening an official investigation file regarding the transfer of DAK to Tennoji Zoo Osaka.
“We request that this investigation be carried out honestly, transparently and responsibly, especially as it involves allegations of abuse of power and misappropriation,” she said in a statement.
She added that previous explanations from various parties defending the transfer agreement have done little to settle public doubts, especially as the issue continues to circulate widely and draw scrutiny.
The latest development, she said, reflects public pressure and civic concern over matters perceived to involve national interest.
Maizatulazwa also urged authorities to complete the investigation swiftly and to disclose all relevant findings to the public.
She further said that if any breach is proven, the elephants should be returned to their original habitat.
MACC has confirmed that it has opened an investigation into the relocation involving agencies including the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia, as well as agents involved in the transfer arrangement.
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