Chemor:The Bukit Bangkong Agricultural Land Operators Association is calling on authorities to urgently address the issue of wild elephant incursions into local orchards. These elephants have been causing significant damage to crops and infrastructure since September 27.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, association member Abdul Rahim Ahmad reported that elephants entered the orchards on September 27, October 3, and October 11, affecting 9.7 hectares of land and impacting 12 farmers. The farmers, who began cultivating fruit such as durian, coconut, jackfruit, and bananas in 2018, have previously dealt with tigers but are now facing destruction caused by elephants. The elephants have damaged water tanks, pipes, and numerous trees.

Abdul Rahim highlighted the financial strain imposed on the farmers, who have suffered losses amounting to thousands of ringgit. He noted that replacing a single water tank costs about RM800, and some farmers have multiple tanks damaged, in addition to the loss of fruit trees. He expressed hope that the issue would be resolved swiftly.

Rohaniah Razari, another member of the association, stated that a formal complaint has been lodged with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) to seek further action. She emphasized the farmers' fears of venturing into their orchards and the urgent need for authorities to act before any injury occurs.

Ipoh City Council (MBI) councillors' Chief Whip, Datuk Mazlan Abdul Rahman, also urged relevant agencies to take prompt action. He acknowledged that some farmers depend on their produce as their main source of income and stressed the importance of protecting their livelihood from wild elephants.