DAK Solidarity backs proposed zoo visit, stressing need for transparency and expert-led welfare checks for three elephants in Japan.
PETALING JAYA: The DAK Solidarity Secretariat has welcomed the Parliamentary Select Committee’s proposed visit to Tennoji Zoo, describing it as an important step reflecting growing scrutiny over the welfare of three Malaysian elephants — Dara, Amoi and Kelat.
Its coordinator, Neow Choo Seong, said the development showed the matter had moved beyond social media debate and was now receiving attention at parliamentary level.
He said the increased scrutiny followed concerns raised by Malaysians, civil society groups and wildlife advocates regarding the elephants’ condition and long-term welfare.
“The committee’s intention to review the agreement between Taiping Zoo & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo is a positive move, as it will help clarify the obligations, responsibilities and commitments of all parties involved in the 25-year relocation arrangement,” he said.
Neow added that transparency and accountability were essential, particularly in matters involving wildlife welfare and international animal transfers.
He said public concerns should not be dismissed as purely emotional, noting that they were increasingly aligned with scientific understanding of elephant behaviour, including stress responses, social disruption and adaptation challenges following relocation.
He stressed that Asian elephants are highly intelligent and emotionally complex animals, and that any major environmental change requires careful and continuous welfare assessment.
At the same time, he said the parliamentary initiative should be viewed constructively, as a fact-finding mission could help establish clearer evidence, reduce speculation and ensure future decisions are guided by professional assessments, scientific evidence and humane considerations.
“We strongly believe the delegation should include independent Malaysian elephant and wildlife experts, including veterinarians, zoologists, animal scientists and conservation specialists, to independently verify the facts.
“This is to ensure a proper assessment of the elephants’ condition and provide objective, professional findings,” he said.
Neow added that such an approach would help reduce speculation and ensure any future decisions are guided by verified scientific evidence and professional evaluation.
Ultimately, he said the priority must remain the welfare of Dara, Amoi and Kelat, stressing that Malaysians want assurance that the elephants are safe, well cared for and treated with dignity throughout their stay in Japan.
