Perak Elephant Sanctuary: Mitigating Human-Animal Conflict on Malaysia's East-West Highway

The East-West Highway in Perak, Malaysia, has long been a hotspot for human-animal conflicts, particularly involving elephants. To address this issue, the Perak Elephant Sanctuary, a RM40 million project listed in the 12th Malaysia Plan, is being developed in Gerik. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable solution to the frequent disruptions caused by elephants on this vital route.

The development of the Perak Elephant Sanctuary is significant as it addresses the growing concern of human-animal conflicts, which can have devastating consequences for both humans and animals. If left unaddressed, these conflicts can lead to loss of life, property damage, and disruption of economic activities, affecting the well-being of local communities and the environment.

Motorists on the East-West Highway have reported numerous close encounters with elephants, some resulting in vehicle damage. Abdul Jad Ayub, a driver, recounted a frightening experience when an elephant pushed against his car, causing significant damage. Similarly, Hamid Maulana, a camper and 4WD adventurer, has had multiple wildlife encounters, including spotting a herd of elephants and a leopard.

To mitigate these conflicts, several measures are being implemented. A notable effort includes the construction of viaducts, such as including the 200-meter long viaduct on the East-West Highway, which cost RM26 million. These structures allow animals to cross beneath while vehicles travel above. Additionally, planting fruit trees aims to encourage elephants to stay within the forest, and special salt, known as jenut, is spread to direct elephants to use these viaducts.

Experts stress the importance of human behavioral changes to protect wildlife. Yusoff Shariff, Perak Perhilitan Department director, noted that viaducts are being used by wildlife, as evidenced by CCTV footage, especially of elephants. Dr. Reuben Clements, a sustainable finance specialist with the Zoological Society of London, highlighted that viaducts are more effective in countries with strong enforcement efforts.

Other measures include installing signage and street lamps to caution motorists, and electric fences to prevent wildlife from straying onto the highway. These efforts aim to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of both humans and animals. Hamid Maulana stressed the importance of giving animals the right of way and urged highway operators to install more warning signs.

Beyond elephants, other wildlife such as red leaf monkeys in Sabah are also at risk. Azmil Pillantong, chairman of Koperasi Komuniti Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan Madai Bhd (Kokom), called for motorists to be vigilant, noting that accidents involving these monkeys occur about four times a year. He suggested that ensuring the forest has enough food could prevent animals from venturing onto roads.

The Perak Elephant Sanctuary is part of a broader effort to protect Malaysia's wildlife and mitigate human-animal conflicts. While challenges remain, including the need for greater awareness and enforcement, the sanctuary represents a significant step towards coexistence between humans and wildlife. As these initiatives progress, the hope is to create a safer environment for both motorists and animals on the East-West Highway.

Key Takeaways

• Perak Elephant Sanctuary to address human-animal conflicts on East-West Highway.
• Viaducts, fruit trees, and special salt to direct elephants to safe crossing areas.
• Experts stress human behavioral changes and strong enforcement to protect wildlife.
• Signage, street lamps, and electric fences to reduce accidents and ensure safety.
• Broader efforts to protect Malaysia's wildlife and mitigate human-animal conflicts.