Kuala lumpur: Perak Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Sandrea Ng Shy Ching met with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to discuss the latest developments concerning the relocation of three elephants from Zoo Taiping and Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo in Japan. The meeting, which took place at the Prime Minister's Office, focused on the welfare of the elephants-Dara, Amoi, and Kelat (DAK)-as well as the importance of maintaining good diplomatic relations and honoring existing commitments and agreements.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ng emphasized the public's concern, highlighting the necessity to address the issue comprehensively based on facts and current developments. She underscored the importance of a careful approach by all relevant parties, with a focus on animal welfare and continuous monitoring to ensure the elephants' well-being remains optimal.

Ng assured that further developments would be communicated by the relevant authorities as they arise. Meanwhile, in a recent Facebook post, the Prime Minister reiterated the need for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) to prioritize the welfare of the three Malaysian elephants. Anwar stressed that any decision or action must be fact-based, ensuring the best possible care for the elephants.

Previously, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup stated that if the current agreement no longer aligns with conservation principles, wildlife welfare, and current sensitivities, DAK should be returned to Malaysia from Japan.