The government allocates RM5 million for Johor Elephant Sanctuary’s second phase, aiming to reduce human-elephant conflict and enhance wildlife conservation.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government has approved RM5 million to initiate development of the Johor Elephant Sanctuary Phase 2 in 2026.
Deputy Natural Resource and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii said this project addresses elephant-human conflict while improving wildlife conservation.
Phase 2 involves constructing a 5.7-kilometre route and 9.3 kilometres of physical barriers.
An electrical elephant fence system will also be installed to better manage elephant disruptions.
The complete phase is projected to cost RM43 million and become fully operational by 2028.
Huang announced this during his winding-up speech for the Supply Bill 2026 debate in parliament.
He also confirmed Malaysia will receive a pair of giant pandas this month through bilateral relations with China.
This panda loan project continues under a new 10-year agreement signed on April 16.
“The renewed agreement allows Malaysia to receive a pair of young giant pandas from 2025 to 2035,” he said.
The Johor wildlife viaduct along Jalan Batu Pahat-Jemaluang remains on schedule for February 2028 completion.
An RM80 million allocation in 2026 will train 2,500 community rangers nationwide to strengthen enforcement.
Wildlife officers will benefit from reviewed special allowances and a new salary scheme.
Cooperation with NGOs continues for monitoring the Malayan Tiger population.
Regarding plastic reduction proposals, Huang noted the ministry will explore suitable incentives with relevant ministries.
No special Budget 2026 allocation exists for the No Plastic Bag campaign, though existing budgets will expand it nationally.
“The initiative to reduce plastic requires cooperation of all parties,” he emphasised.
Dewan Rakyat passed the RM2.39 billion allocation for the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry after debates by 18 members of parliament. – Bernama
