KINABATANGAN, May 12 (Bernama) -- Plantation operators in Sabah have been instructed to ensure that any pond structures built within their plantation areas feature at least one gradual slope as a crucial wildlife safety measure.
Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the directive by the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) was aimed at preventing animals from being trapped, following a recent incident involving 11 Bornean pygmy elephant at the FGV Cepat Ringgit B plantation near the Deramakot Forest Reserve last Saturday.
“The SWD has instructed plantation operators to ensure that similar pond structures are not developed without proper mitigation measures.
“Where ponds are necessary, at least one side of the embankment must be constructed with a gradual slope instead of steep vertical walls to allow wildlife to escape safely should such incidents occur,” he said in a statement today.
Commenting on the trapped elephants, Jafry expressed relief that all the animals, including a calf, were successfully rescued without any serious injuries or fatalities.
Jafry noted that the Sabah Wildlife Department and plantation management responded swiftly, directing the pond embankment to be flattened to allow the herd to safely crawl out.
“While it is still unclear whether the elephants entered the pond on their own or accidentally fell in, there is a possibility that they entered voluntarily due to the current hot weather conditions, as elephants are known to seek water to cool their body temperatures through wallowing and bathing,” he said.
He stressed that the incident serves as an important reminder that man-made structures such as ponds and trenches located near wildlife movement corridors continue to pose significant risks to Sabah’s wildlife, particularly the iconic and protected Bornean pygmy elephant.
Commending the SWD field rangers, plantation personnel, and all parties involved for their fast and professional response, Jafry said that the department would continue working closely with plantation operators and local communities to strengthen wildlife protection measures.
“Protecting Sabah’s biodiversity is a shared responsibility. This successful rescue demonstrates the importance of early reporting, cooperation, and collective commitment in ensuring these endangered species continue to thrive for future generations,” he added.
-- BERNAMA
