How Zoo Taiping Maintains Ownership of Elephants Sent Abroad
The relocation of three Malaysian elephants to Japan has sparked significant public interest and debate, leading to questions about the nature of the agreement between Zoo Taiping & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo. A non-commercial cooperation The transfer of Dara, Amoi, and Kelat—collectively known as DAK—is part of a 25-year international cooperation agreement . Officials…
The relocation of three Malaysian elephants to Japan has sparked significant public interest and debate, leading to questions about the nature of the agreement between Zoo Taiping & Night Safari and Tennoji Zoo.
A non-commercial cooperation
The transfer of Dara, Amoi, and Kelat—collectively known as DAK—is part of a 25-year international cooperation agreement . Officials have repeatedly clarified that there are no commercial elements involved in this arrangement . The agreement, which was formalised in 2022, focuses on conservation needs and diplomatic ties between the two institutions .
Ownership remains with Malaysia
Despite their move to Osaka, the three elephants remain the property of Zoo Taiping . There has been no transfer of ownership, and the Taiping Municipal Council continues to act as the representative for the zoo in this partnership .
Addressing welfare concerns
The relocation process has been described by authorities as one handled with careful consideration for the animals' welfare . However, the move has faced scrutiny from activists and non-governmental organisations who have raised concerns regarding the elephants' well-being in their new environment . As of June 2026, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has been looking into the transfer following various allegations .
