Wild Elephant "Yob Padang" Successfully Relocated in Gerik
Wild Elephant "Yob Padang" Successfully Relocated in Gerik
A wild male elephant named Yob Padang was successfully relocated by the Perak Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) after it was reported encroaching on rubber plantations in Kampung Padang Stang. This unique operation utilized the assistance of two female decoy elephants, Abot and Rambai, to facilitate the relocation of the 3-tonne elephant.
The 45-year-old elephant was captured by the Elephant Capture Unit (UTG) on Wednesday after residents complained about crop damage caused by the animal's disturbances. According to Perak Perhilitan Director, Yusoff Shariff, Yob Padang is believed to be a solitary elephant that entered the village area in search of food.
“The operation went smoothly thanks to the help of Abot and Rambai, who managed to ‘calm’ Yob Padang in just 15 minutes,” explained Yusoff when met at the scene.
Yob Padang, which has a pair of tusks, is said to be one of the largest elephants captured in Perak in recent years. Additionally, another young male elephant aged 14 years (weighing 1.5 tonnes) was also relocated yesterday following an operation near Kampung Bongor.
Kampung Padang Stang Village Head, Md. Shamsuri Shaari (65), admitted that the relocation brought relief to residents who were previously worried about their safety.
“We are relieved that this threat has been successfully resolved,” he said.
With the cooperation of the residents and the efficiency of the Perhilitan team, it is hoped that human-wildlife conflicts like this can be reduced in the future.
References:
- Malaysia Gazette, 20 May 2025
- Kosmo, 20 May 2025
