Kota Kinabalu: Anyone responsible for decapitating Borneo pygmy elephants in Sabah will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, says Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KepKAS) Datuk Christina Liew.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Liew expressed deep concern over the discovery of a decapitated Borneo pygmy elephant in Tawau, which was confirmed by Sabah Wildlife Department director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar. She stated this incident marks the second within a short span of time, indicating a potential pattern of illegal poaching activities in the state.

The Sabah Wildlife Department has launched an immediate investigation into the incident. Liew emphasized that any acts of cruelty and poaching against Sabah’s protected wildlife will not be tolerated. She assured that efforts will be made to ensure that the perpetrators are identified, prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and held accountable.

Enhanced enforcement measures, including joint operations and roadblocks with other security agencies, are being implemented at key locations to deter further illegal activities. Liew highlighted the urgent need for continued vigilance and cooperation between state and federal enforcement agencies, local communities, and the public.

Liew called on all parties to share any information that may assist in the investigation and to remain committed to safeguarding Sabah’s unique biodiversity. She noted that with an estimated population of only 1,500 to 2,000 of the species remaining in the wild, each loss is a serious setback to the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve this endangered species.

The Borneo pygmy elephant is a fully protected species under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, and any offence committed against this species carries severe penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment.