The tragic death of another Borneo Pygmy elephant

Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) is very concerned about another incident involving a Borneo Pygmy elephant found dead as a result of the cruel and irresponsible actions of a few individuals.  It was reported that the carcass of the elephant showed signs of having been shot and having cuts. There were seven shots, all of which hit the elephant’s head.

The motive for the killing has not yet been identified by the authorities but the effects of this tragedy have made the Pygmy Borneo elephant population now on the verge of extinction. If stringent measures are not taken, it is very likely that their population will disappear from the map of Borneo. This should not be allowed.

This is not the first time this has happened in Sabah. We have heard occasional news of the death of the pygmy elephants. What drove the perpetrator to carry out this heinous crime, losing consideration of humanity towards other beings. What is their real motive or modus operandi to be willing to treat animals to such an extent?

SAM has previously, through the mass media, condemned the atrocities that led to several cases of death of pygmy elephants and dwindling population of the pygmy elephants. We had also called on the Sabah state authorities to have a clear direction on curbing more deaths of the Borneo Pygmy elephants in the hands of poachers and others. SAM’s call is to increase the integrated efforts of all relevant agencies if they want this wildlife to survive in Sabah.

SAM is very concerned of this issue and expects the Police as well as the relevant authorities to intensify the investigation so that the perpetrators responsible are brought to justice without compromise or tolerance. What we see in this episode is the death of a young Borneo Pygmy elephant in a very tragic situation. It would be very sad if the responsible perpetrator is still free out there.

SAM also agrees with the proposal of former Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew that the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997 be amended so that the perpetrators could be punished more severely.

Media Statement, 26 January2021