Sabah Authorities Probe Injured Elephant Case as Search Efforts Continue

21 May 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah authorities are intensifying efforts to locate and assess an injured Bornean elephant in Felda Kalabakan Selatan, even as investigations continue into a separate recent elephant death in Tongod.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Jafry Ariffin said he is deeply concerned about the latest case, which came to light following the circulation of a social media video showing an elephant with an apparent trunk injury.

According to information received, a report on the injured elephant was lodged last week. Search and monitoring operations were conducted on 13 and 14 May, but the animal could not be located.

“As the elephant was not found, rescue intervention could not be carried out at that stage. Further action will depend on new information or sightings from the field,” he said in a statement.

Preliminary assessments by veterinary teams indicate that trunk injuries in elephants are highly complex. Experts caution that any attempt at reconstruction or reconnection would carry a low likelihood of restoring full function.

They added that any rescue operation would involve extensive procedures beyond immediate treatment, including possible surgery, intensive post-operative care, controlled feeding, temporary holding arrangements, and continuous monitoring for up to two weeks.

Initial observations suggest the wound may be showing some signs of healing, although recovery remains imperfect. At present, field rangers from the Sabah Wildlife Department continue to monitor the situation closely.

“There is currently no evidence of severe infection that would pose an immediate threat to the elephant’s survival,” Jafry said, adding that veterinary intervention is not required at this stage but will be initiated if the condition deteriorates.

The cause of the injury remains under investigation. While snaring is among the possibilities being examined, authorities have not confirmed this and are also exploring other causes, including contact with sharp objects.

One potential factor under consideration is accidental injury from tools used in oil palm plantations, particularly if equipment had been left behind or embedded within plantation areas.

Jafry urged the public to refrain from speculation while investigations are ongoing.

“The Bornean elephant is one of Sabah’s most iconic species and a vital part of our natural heritage. We are committed to ensuring every wildlife case is handled responsibly, professionally and based on scientific assessment,” he said.

He added that the Ministry will continue working closely with the Sabah Wildlife Department and relevant stakeholders to monitor developments and take appropriate action as needed.