Kuala lumpur: The government has sanctioned an initial allocation of RM5 million to commence Phase 2 of the Johor Elephant Sanctuary (JES) development in 2026, aimed at addressing elephant-human conflicts and enhancing wildlife conservation efforts. Deputy Natural Resource and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii announced the project will include the construction of a 5.7-kilometre route, 9.3 kilometres of physical barriers, and the installation of an electrical elephant fence system. The entire Phase 2 initiative is projected to cost RM43 million and is expected to be fully operational by 2028.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Huang also mentioned that Malaysia is set to receive a pair of giant pandas this month, a testament to the strong ties between Malaysia and China. This exchange highlights their shared commitment to wildlife conservation, with a new 10-year panda loan agreement having been signed on April 16 during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia. This agreement will facilitate the arrival of young giant pandas in Malaysia from 2025 to 2035.
Huang further updated on the progress of the Johor wildlife viaduct along Jalan Batu Pahat-Jemaluang, which is proceeding as planned and is anticipated to be finished by February 7, 2028. Additionally, the government has earmarked RM80 million in 2026 to train 2,500 community rangers nationwide to bolster enforcement. The career trajectory of wildlife officers has been enhanced through a revision of special allowances and a new salary structure, with continued collaboration with non-governmental organizations to monitor the Malayan Tiger population.
Addressing environmental sustainability efforts, Huang responded to a proposal for subsidies and incentives to produce paper boxes as alternatives to plastic. The ministry plans to collaborate with the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, among others, to identify suitable incentives. However, there is no specific allocation for the No Plastic Bag campaign in the Budget 2026, though existing funds will be utilized to expand the campaign nationwide. He emphasized the importance of cooperation from all parties and the involvement of stakeholders and NGOs to ensure the success of sustainability initiatives.
The Dewan Rakyat subsequently approved the estimated management and development expenditure of RM2,386,704,300 allocated to the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry under the Budget 2026, following debates by 18 MPs.