IPOH: The state government is studying a proposal to establish an elephant food bank to mitigate human-elephant conflict.
State Science, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said the proposal could involve creating buffer zones within elephants' roaming areas to provide them with an alternative food source.
He said the Forestry Department and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) would need to work together to identify suitable locations for the initiative.
"We are currently studying the possibility of establishing a food bank for elephants.
"Perhaps we could create buffer zones within the areas where they roam, so they can remain there," he said after attending the state-level Environment and Ozone Day celebrations at Angsana Mall today.
Teh said the proposal was being considered amid concerns over the growing elephant population and shrinking natural habitats.
He added that seasonal changes, particularly during the fruiting season, could influence the animals' movements and increase the likelihood of them venturing into areas used by humans.
"Sometimes, it depends on the season. When the fruiting season arrives, that is when the situation becomes worrying," he said.
However, Teh acknowledged that the approach might not always be effective, as elephants could be difficult to keep within designated areas.
"No matter what food you provide, they may not want it. They prefer to roam freely," he said.
He said the proposal remained under study, with the relevant departments expected to assess its feasibility before any decision was made.
Asked about potential locations for the food bank, Teh said discussions were ongoing to identify suitable sites.
Currently, Perak has no elephant food bank. Such facilities are available in Terengganu, Pahang, Johor and Kelantan.
On the threat posed by wild elephants to fruit orchards in Bukit Bangkong, Chemor, which have been raided three times within weeks, Teh said action would be taken to assist the affected farmers.
"Action will be taken and we believe the elephants are roaming in search of food as the fruiting season approaches," he said.
Yesterday, the New Straits Times reported that the elephants were first spotted in the area on Sept 27 before returning on Oct 3 and Oct 11, damaging fruit trees, water tanks, pipes and ponds.
The Bukit Bangkong Hulu Cemor farmers' group said the repeated incursions had raised concerns among orchard owners, who had invested considerable time, effort and money in developing their land.
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