Kuala lumpur: The government has assured that the welfare of three elephants sent from Malaysia to Japan will continue to be closely monitored. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup stated that the ministry understands the concerns of Malaysians regarding the elephants Dara, Amoi, and Kelat, who were sent to Japan on March 10.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Arthur explained that the transfer was conducted after several years of careful study and preparation to ensure the animals' welfare is safeguarded. He addressed these concerns while speaking to reporters after officiating the Community Ranger Appointment Ceremony and flagging off the 2026 Integrated Khazanah Operation for Peninsular Malaysia at Dataran Ledang.

Arthur highlighted that the relocation is part of a conservation plan initiated over a decade ago through an agreement between the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo. The agreement aims to strengthen breeding efforts and increase the elephant population through shared expertise and conservation technology transfer.

He emphasized that conservation technology in Japan is quite advanced, and the collaboration seeks to benefit from this knowledge to help increase the elephant population in Malaysia. Before the elephants were sent to Osaka, extensive studies and evaluations ensured the zoo's facilities met Malaysia's requirements. Additionally, the Osaka zoo upgraded its facilities, including veterinary services, to accommodate the elephants.

Arthur also mentioned that three mahouts from Malaysia were dispatched to accompany the elephants to help them acclimate to their new environment. The adjustment process is expected to take several months, during which the ministry will provide media updates to inform the public of the elephants' condition.

The transfer of the elephants initially triggered sad reactions on social media, reflecting the public's emotional connection to the animals.