Johor: A herd of wild elephants, once seen as a threat to local communities, is being given a second chance through a translocation effort by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, in a coordinated operation this week, four female elephants, including a calf, were sedated and safely relocated from a rubber plantation in Kampung Sri Lukut, marking the start of a broader conservation mission in Kluang. This effort is part of an integrated operation launched on July 14, the first such initiative in Johor this year.

Assisting in the operation were Abot and Sanum, two gajah denak (trained elephants) from the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, Pahang, guided by their handlers to help calm and lead the captured elephants. Johor PERHILITAN director Aminuddin Jamin highlighted the crucial role of gajah denak, noting their ability to offer psychological reassurance that prevents panic and resistance.

So far, nine wild elephants have been captured in the Kluang operation. Four were relocated two days ago, with two elephants moved during each subsequent session. One elephant has already been transferred to the Johor Elephant Sanctuary (JES). The operation is supported by satellite collars, each costing RM30,000, and drone surveillance to track herd movement.

Over 30 personnel from PERHILITAN, JES, and Kuala Gandah were involved in the field operation, along with a dedicated veterinary team. Johor PERHILITAN veterinary officer Dr. Suliza Abd Wahab, who oversaw tranquilisation and post-capture care, views the elephants as patients rather than just wildlife. She explained that sedative doses are carefully tailored, with capture-phase doses reaching 20cc and reduced amounts used during transport or release.

Each relocation can cost up to RM50,000, covering transportation, logistics, food, and veterinary care. Medication alone ranges from RM350 to RM6,000 per elephant. While some have criticised the process as inhumane, JES head Azrul Abd Manan defended the operation as necessary and ethical, stressing that relocation to safer, protected habitats is the best solution for both the elephants and people.

He added that elephants are being forced into conflict due to shrinking forest habitats, not by choice. This effort gives them a real second chance despite being perceived as a nuisance by many.