Kuala lumpur: The allegation that the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) sold 19 elephants to certain parties, as circulated on social media, is false and misleading. Perhilitan director-general (DG) Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim clarified that the elephants in question are being transferred on loan for ongoing wildlife conservation and management purposes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the transfer process is part of the department's strategic efforts to ensure the survival of species in the event of disease outbreaks or disasters in their original habitat. The initiative aims to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and strengthen conservation programs through collaborations with relevant parties. This strategy is vital as a 'population insurance' measure, which involves placing some of the population in different locations to mitigate the risk of massive population loss due to factors such as infectious diseases, habitat destruction, or natural disasters.

The collaboration also facilitates opportunities for technology and expertise transfer, particularly in controlled breeding, health monitoring, nutrition, and modern habitat management. This approach supports more effective and sustainable relocation efforts for the elephant species. All relocated elephants remain under the monitoring and regulation of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRES) and Perhilitan, including through management records, health monitoring, and periodic reports from the receiving parties.

Abdul Kadir emphasized the seriousness of disseminating false information, as it can create confusion and negative perceptions towards the country's conservation efforts. He noted that appropriate actions could be taken against any party spreading false information. The public is urged to refrain from spreading inaccurate information and to always refer to official statements from NRES and Perhilitan for accurate information.