Gerik: The Perak Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) is actively monitoring an adult male wild elephant that has been observed along Jalan Raya Timur Barat (JRTB), Gerik, since August 17. The department is engaged in efforts to guide the elephant back into the forest.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the elephant has sustained an injury to its right front leg, but its behavior remains normal, and it can still move effectively. Perhilitan noted that the wound is showing signs of recovery, and they are continuing their efforts to guide the elephant away from the road area.

Perhilitan has increased its monitoring and guiding operations to twice daily, both during the day and night, as the elephant continues to return to the road area. The department shared this information via a statement on its official Facebook page.

Recently, social media was abuzz with videos showing the elephant, believed to be named Sulong Chalil, walking along the JRTB. These videos are believed to have been recorded by members of the public using the route. The elephant is thought to have originally come from Chalil, Gua Musang, before being relocated to the forest area in Gerik. However, it appears to be moving back towards its original habitat.

Additionally, Perak Perhilitan has enhanced the readiness of its personnel on the ground and obtained an assessment from a veterinary doctor to evaluate the elephant's condition and determine any necessary follow-up actions.

The department has also issued advisories for JRTB users, urging them to slow down within a five-kilometer radius before reaching the Titiwangsa Rest and Service Area (RandR) from either direction to prevent any potential incidents. Motorists are advised to follow instructions from enforcement personnel and Perhilitan officers and refrain from taking photographs or videos of the elephant to avoid traffic disruptions.

Perhilitan further advises motorists who encounter wildlife, including elephants, to remain vigilant and not stop or exit their vehicles if the wildlife is on the road shoulder, provided there is no aggressive behavior or provocation involved.