The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has opened an investigation into the transfer of three Asian elephants from Zoo Taiping to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, amid allegations of irregularities linked to the programme.
In a statement, MACC said it is currently recording statements from at least four public agencies involved in the transfer of the elephants — Dara, Amoi and Kelat (DAK). The agencies include the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), Perak Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), Taiping Municipal Council and Zoo Taiping.
The anti-graft agency said investigators are seeking details on the approval process, procedures and memorandum of understanding (MoU) governing the relocation programme.
MACC added that the probe is also focusing on NRES, Perhilitan and agents involved in facilitating the transfer.
The commission is further examining allegations that payments linked to the arrangement were not channelled to the government, as well as claims involving transactions estimated at RM53 million.
However, MACC stressed that investigations remain at an early stage and are being conducted comprehensively.
“We urge the public not to speculate or draw conclusions that could interfere with the ongoing investigation,” it said.
The transfer of Dara, Amoi and Kelat to Tennoji Zoo was carried out under a conservation cooperation agreement between Zoo Taiping & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo.
The programme has since sparked debate over the welfare and living conditions of the elephants in Japan, with animal welfare groups and activists questioning whether the tropical species would be better cared for in their natural habitat in Malaysia.
Supporters of the agreement have defended the 25-year collaboration, saying it is aimed at long-term conservation and breeding efforts. They also noted that the elephants remain the property of Malaysia and that the arrangement incorporates species preservation considerations.
The controversy has prompted calls from various stakeholders and political leaders for the elephants to be repatriated and placed at the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, which is equipped with specialised facilities and expertise for elephant .
