The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) opened an investigation into the transfer of three Asian elephants named Dara, Amoi, and Kelat from Taiping Zoo to Tennoji Zoo in Osaka, Japan, authorities confirmed on June 22, 2026 [1, 2]. The inquiry focuses on the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan), and the agent involved in the transfer [1, 2, 3].
The probe followed a report by wildlife rights group Hak Asasi Hidupan Liar Malaysia (Hidup) on June 18, which alleged payments linked to the elephant transfer, valued at approximately RM53 million, were not channelled to the government and suggested fund leakages [4, 1, 2, 3, 5]. The group’s lawyer, Rajesh Nagarajan, called for an investigation into Perhilitan and former NRES Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, saying, "The public deserves full transparency" [1].
NRES Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the ministry would fully cooperate with MACC and would not protect any party if wrongdoing or breaches of procedure were found. He said, "The ministry will never compromise with or protect any party if there is proof of wrongdoing, misconduct or breach of procedure in the transfer, in order to safeguard institutional integrity and the country's reputation internationally" [1]. He also added, "NRES is prepared to provide full and comprehensive cooperation to the authorities throughout the course of this investigation to ensure that the investigative process is completed thoroughly and transparently" [4].
MACC is investigating possible corruption, misappropriation, or abuse of power related to the transfer and the alleged fund irregularities [1, 2, 3].
The investigation remains ongoing, with the NRES ministry publicly committing to transparency and full cooperation as MACC continues its inquiry into the elephant transfer and financial dealings surrounding the case [4, 1, 2].
