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Taiping council denies neglect claims over elephants at Japanese zoo

Majlis Perbandaran Taiping has refuted allegations that three elephants transferred to a Japanese facility are being mistreated, stating the animals are in good health and adapting well to their new environment.

LSN Malaysia · 22 October 2026

Taiping council denies neglect claims over elephants at Japanese zoo

The Taiping Municipal Council has dismissed claims that elephants sent to Zoo Tennoji in Osaka, Japan are being neglected or abused. According to the council, the three elephants—Darao, Amoi, and Kelat—are in good health and have successfully acclimated to their new surroundings at the Japanese zoo. The statement comes in response to allegations circulating regarding the welfare of the animals following their transfer. The council maintained that the elephants' relocation was conducted professionally and that their current care meets international standards. Zoo Tennoji, one of Japan's prominent zoological facilities, is responsible for the day-to-day management and welfare of the three animals. The council did not provide additional details regarding the specific nature of the allegations but emphasized its commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of animals under its previous care. The transfer of the elephants was part of an international wildlife management initiative, though the council has not elaborated on the terms or conditions of the agreement with the Japanese zoo.