KINABATANGAN: A herd of more than 20 elephants has once again visited the napier grass plantation managed by the RESPonsible Elephant Conservation Trust (RESPECT) in Tanini, Kinabatangan, reinforcing the effectiveness of ongoing conservation efforts.
The elephants were seen feeding on the Napier grass while being observed by tourists at a nearby lodge. The sighting began at 6:45 AM and lasted until 5:00 PM, marking an extended presence in the area. This is the second recorded visit since RESPECT established the site in April 2024 as part of an effort to create a sustainable food corridor for Borneo’s elephants. The first visit took place in July last year when a smaller group of eight elephants entered the area.
RESPECT Chairman, Alexander Yee, expressed his optimism, stating, “This initiative is not only yielding results but proving to be a viable solution to mitigate human-elephant conflict in Kinabatangan. However, for long-term success, we need continued collaboration and support from all stakeholders.”
The 1-acre plantation in Tanini, Kinabatangan, was originally developed as a pilot project in collaboration with Intrepid Travel. Encouraged by its success, Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment, launched a broader initiative in January 2025, expanding the project to 33.35 acres, creating the Borneo Elephant Food Corridor along the Riparian Reserve of Kampung Bilit—a larger, dedicated feeding zone aimed at keeping elephants within safe areas and reducing conflicts with plantations and villages.
The idea behind the food corridor is simple: by providing sufficient food sources in designated areas, elephants will be less likely to enter farmlands, oil palm plantations, or residential compounds in search of food.
Despite these efforts, isolated incidents still occur. Just three days ago, a baby elephant was spotted entering a house in Kalabakan, reportedly in search of water and food.
Such incidents highlight the urgent need for expanding the food corridor to provide sustainable alternatives for wild elephants while protecting local communities.
The return of the herd to the site is a promising sign that conservation-driven solutions are making a difference. RESPECT remains committed to working with government agencies, conservation partners, and local communities to ensure the success of this initiative for the long-term survival of Borneo’s elephants.
