76,361 Wildlife Conflict Complaints Recorded Since 2021, Losses Exceed RM58 Million

Malaysia has recorded a significant number of wildlife conflict incidents, with 76,361 complaints lodged nationwide between 2021 and May 2026. These conflicts have led to substantial financial losses, estimated at RM58.7 million.

“

From 2021 to May 2026, a total of 76,361 wildlife conflict complaints have been recorded nationwide with an estimated total loss of RM58.7 million.

Johor alone reported 9,063 such incidents, incurring losses of approximately RM7.5 million. The Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, disclosed these figures in the Dewan Rakyat.

“

Of this total, 9,063 conflict complaints have been recorded in Johor with estimated losses reaching RM7.5 million.

To address these issues, the government has implemented the Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Conservation (EFT) program since 2019. This initiative encourages state governments to enhance the management of protected areas and biodiversity conservation efforts. As of 2025, EFT has contributed to the gazetting of about 90,000 hectares of new terrestrial protected areas, bolstering wildlife habitat conservation.

“

Until 2025, the implementation of EFT has contributed to the gazetting of approximately 90,000 hectares of new terrestrial protected areas, thereby strengthening wildlife habitat conservation in the country.

For the 2025-2026 period, RM600,000 in EFT funds has been allocated to bolster human-elephant conflict management. This includes initiatives like the Johor State Elephant Translocation Integrated Operations Program, targeting eight elephant corridor areas, including Mersing. The program aims to relocate 25 wild elephants to more suitable habitats. So far, 29 wild elephants have been successfully captured and moved.

“

For 2025 to 2026, RM600,000 in EFT funds has been allocated to strengthen the management of human and elephant conflict through various initiatives.