Elephant Sanctuary - We’ve nothing to hide

TEMERLOH: The National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, which has been the target of criticisms following incidents involving two young elephants, has denied allegations of mismanagement and poor animal care. 

Its elephant unit head Nasharuddin Othman accused “irresponsible quarters” of trying to tarnish the image of the centre and that of the Department of Wildlife and National Parks. 

He also defended his 26 workers, describing them as “dedicated in their work and not easily demoralised.” 

Five of them were in the pioneer batch recruited when the centre started operations in 1990. 

“I have faith in their work,” said Nasharuddin in an interview here. 

“We have nothing to hide and outsiders are welcome to drop by to see how the elephants are taken care of.” 

The Wildlife Department and the centre were recently rapped for allegedly mishandling its sick animals, resulting in the death of baby elephant Mat Chepor, and 17-month-old Mardos fracturing its hind legs. 

Nasharuddin said the centre was currently tending 10 elephants. 

Nasharuddin said sometimes, on the request of nearby schools, the centre would arrange to have these young elephants make “guest” appearances. 

“We follow all necessary guidelines and precautions,” he said, adding that it makes sense to use the elephants to create awareness among the people on conservation efforts.