What laws govern elephant use in public events?

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Laws Governing Elephant Use in Public Events

The use of elephants in public events is governed by specific legislation in Malaysia, primarily the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 and the Animal Welfare Act 2015. These laws mandate strict regulations to protect endangered species and prevent animal suffering. The Asian elephant, classified as Elephas maximus, is designated as a fully protected species under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716). Consequently, any activity involving the possession, exhibition, or utilisation of such wildlife necessitates a special permit, which is subject to rigorous approval processes by the pertinent authorities.
Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 Requirements

Under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716), engaging in any activity that involves the possession, exhibition, or use of fully protected wildlife, including elephants, requires obtaining a special permit. The issuance of such permits is contingent upon stringent approval by the relevant authorities, indicating a high level of scrutiny for any proposed public interaction with these animals. This framework ensures that the welfare and conservation status of protected species are prioritised.
Animal Welfare Act 2015 Provisions

Complementing the conservation laws, the Animal Welfare Act 2015 (Act 772) specifically addresses the ethical treatment of animals. This Act explicitly prohibits any action that inflicts suffering, distress, or neglect of an animal's fundamental needs, particularly when such acts are carried out for the purpose of entertainment. This provision is crucial in preventing the exploitation of elephants for commercial or public display purposes that could compromise their well-being.
Enforcement and Permitting Procedures

The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) plays a central role in the enforcement of these laws and the management of permits. While Perhilitan has an established Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for elephant procession programmes, concerns have been raised regarding the transparency and adequacy of approval processes for events involving elephants. In response to public outcry, Perhilitan has announced the formation of a Special Task Force to review and enhance existing laws, SOPs, and procedures, in collaboration with stakeholders, to ensure comprehensive protection and refinement of regulations governing the use of elephants.

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What laws govern elephant use in public events?

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