KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has confirmed that it has opened an investigation paper into allegations of leakages involving the relocation of three elephants — Dara, Amoi and Kelat (DAK) — from Zoo Taiping & Night Safari to Tennoji Zoo.
In a statement today, the commission said the probe was initiated following claims of irregularities and possible mismanagement in the transfer process.
“The investigation focuses on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), as well as agents involved in the relocation process of the three elephants known as DAK,” according to the statement.
MACC added that the investigation also covers allegations that payments linked to the relocation were not channelled to the government, while also examining whether elements of corruption, misappropriation or abuse of power were involved.
“The investigation is still at an early stage and is being carried out comprehensively,” according to the statement.
On June 18, wildlife rights group Hidup urged MACC to investigate the relocation of DAK, claiming possible financial discrepancies in the deal.
The group also alleged that payments related to the transfer were not channelled to the government, and linked certain individuals to transactions estimated at RM53 million.
Following this, MACC advised the public not to make any speculation or draw conclusions that could affect the investigation process. – June 22, 2026