Kelat’s Tusk Procedure Conducted Safely Under Veterinary Oversight, Says Perhilitan
Putrajaya — The treatment involving the tusks of an elephant named Kelat was carried out in accordance with established veterinary protocols and animal welfare guidelines, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) said.
In a statement, the department emphasised that the procedure was guided by professional clinical assessments and conservation management expertise, ensuring that Kelat’s health and welfare remained the central priority.
Perhilitan explained that the intervention was performed in a carefully controlled setting, using techniques aimed at minimising physiological stress on the animal. Continuous monitoring is also being undertaken to ensure a smooth recovery and maintain long-term well-being.
Kelat is one of three elephants — together with Dara and Amoi — that were relocated from Zoo Taiping & Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo on March 11 under a Malaysia–Japan cooperation initiative.
The relocation forms part of the Malaysian Elephant Conservation Programme introduced in 2022, which focuses on breeding and research efforts.
According to Perhilitan, damage was identified on Kelat’s left tusk, prompting the need for treatment. To ensure balance, trimming was also carried out on the right tusk to prevent uneven pressure that could strain the elephant’s head and jaw.
The department noted that such imbalance could result in discomfort, heighten the risk of injury, and interfere with essential behaviours such as feeding, movement, and social interaction.
As a precaution, both corrective and preventive measures were implemented to safeguard Kelat’s health and overall quality of life.
Perhilitan added that it will continue to coordinate closely with both Zoo Taiping & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo in monitoring the condition of all three elephants involved.
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