Authorities to identify perpetrators of decapitated Borneo Pygmy Elephant
- nabalunews
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
6 April 2025
KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) has issued a stern warning to those responsible for decapitating the Borneo pygmy elephant in Sabah.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew reiterated that any acts of cruelty and poaching against Sabah’s protected wildlife will not be tolerated.
"We will leave no stone unturned in our effort to ensure that the perpetrators are identified, prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and held accountable.
"The Ministry expresses deep concern over the recent discovery of a decapitated Borneo pygmy elephant in Tawau as this marks the second such incident within a short span of time, indicating a potential pattern of illegal poaching activities in the state.
"The Sabah Wildlife Department has launched an immediate investigation into the incident. Enhanced enforcement measures, including joint operations and roadblocks with other security agencies, are being carried out at key locations to deter further illegal activities," she said in a statement on Sunday.
Liew stressed that the latest incident underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and cooperation between enforcement agencies, local communities, and the public.
"We (KePKAS) call on all parties to share any information that may assist in the investigation and to remain committed to safeguarding Sabah’s unique biodiversity," she said.
The Minister also noted with concern that the number of such cases appears to be on the rise, notably since the last quarter of 2024.
"We, therefore, call for stronger collaboration and coordinated actions among all relevant enforcement, conservation, and security agencies both at the state and federal levels, to address this threat decisively and prevent further loss of our endangered species," she asserted.
Liew reminded that the Borneo pygmy elephant is a fully protected species under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, and any offence committed against this species carries severe penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment.
"With an estimated population of only 1,500 to 2,000 individuals remaining in the wild, each loss is a serious setback to the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve this endangered species," she added.
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