Wild elephant sighting causes concern in Malaysian village

A wild elephant's appearance in the residential area of Felda Chalok Rahmat in Setiu, Malaysia, has caused unease among locals, prompting some to restrict their children's outdoor activities for safety.

“

I only watched from inside the house and did not chase or provoke the elephant because I was worried something undesirable might happen.

Khairuddin Mohamad, a resident for 11 years, recounted seeing the elephant near his home shortly after returning from work. He described feeling anxious and chose not to provoke the animal, fearing an undesirable outcome. Since the encounter, he has prohibited his children from playing outside due to concerns about the elephant's potential presence in the vicinity. The elephant was observed uprooting coconut trees and eating cassava near his property.

Nordin Jusoh, Chairman of the Seri Rahmat Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK), confirmed that residents discovered elephant tracks on a newly paved road near the village. This is reportedly the second such incident in the village, and authorities suspect the elephant became separated from its herd. The committee has lodged a complaint with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) and hopes for a swift resolution.

“

Since the incident, I have not allowed my children to play outside the house because I am afraid the elephant is still in the surrounding area.

Dennis Ten Choon Yung, Director of Terengganu Perhilitan, stated that an investigation is underway. A team has been dispatched to the location to take appropriate action regarding the stray elephant.

“

We have made a report to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) and sincerely hope this problem can be addressed immediately.