Young Elephant found dead at Felcra Estate

1 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: A female Bornean elephant, estimated to be between nine and ten years old, was found dead on 26 September 2025 within the Felcra Berhad Plantation in Danum, Lahad Datu.

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew expressed sadness over the loss of the young elephant stating that according to the Sabah Wildlife Department, estate workers discovered the carcass before a post-mortem was conducted the following day.

The examination revealed only minor old wounds with no signs of fresh injuries. Laboratory tests later confirmed that the cause of death was organ failure.

The Department informed her that investigations ruled out any elements of wildlife crime in the incident.

The Bornean elephant, known for its smaller size and gentler nature compared to its mainland Asian relatives, remains one of Sabah’s most iconic yet vulnerable wildlife treasures.