\nyear\u2019s World Elephant Day in Johor, which focused primarily on raising
\nawareness of coexistence. In 2025, the program introduced concrete progress,
\nincluding the launch of the Sungai Ara Human-Elephant Coexistence (HEC) Committee Story Map<\/a>, showcasing community-driven strategies
\nto manage over 8,400 hectares of farmland, natural areas, and settlements under
\nthe Elephant Management Zone.<\/p>\n
A highlight of the day was the presence of two
\nelephants, Panti and Pes which allowed communities, especially children and
\nsmallholders, to interact directly with these gentle giants. This rare,
\nhands-on experience helped deepen understanding, build empathy, and break down
\nfear by fostering familiarity between people and elephants.<\/p>\n
Encik Safiai, Chairman of the Sungai Ara HEC
\nCommittee, said, \u201cThrough the committee, we have clear steps whenever elephants
\nare near \u2014 from patrolling and giving early warnings to guiding the elephants
\nback safely. But managing this landscape is not something the community can do
\nalone. With the support of government agencies, NGOs, and partners, we are able
\nto protect our farms while ensuring elephants continue to live safely in their
\nhabitat. This collaboration proves that when everyone comes together, real
\nsolutions are possible.\u201d<\/p>\n
District Officer of Mersing, Hj Jamil Hasni Bin Abdullah highlighted the ecological
\nand cultural significance of elephants, \u201cElephants are more than wildlife, they
\nare a keystone species essential to the health of our forests and ecosystems.
\nWe cannot view them only as threats to crops or settlements. Instead, we must
\nfind balance so that development and conservation move forward together. By
\nbuilding awareness and practicing safety, communities can protect both their
\nlivelihoods and the survival of elephants as part of our shared natural
\nheritage.\u201d<\/p>\n
From an industry perspective, the Federal Land
\nDevelopment Authority (FELDA) reinforced the importance of safety and
\nresponsibility in coexistence. Zool Hilmi Zahani Bin Haron, Director of FELDA\u2019s
\nReplanting Department, noted, \u201cConservation and coexistence with elephants must
\ngo hand in hand with community safety. As we live and work within elephant
\nranges, it is vital that we follow proper safety measures, remain vigilant, and
\nact responsibly. By doing so, we not only protect ourselves and our
\nlivelihoods, but also ensure that elephants can continue to thrive as part of
\nour shared environment.\u201d<\/p>\n