KOTA KINABALU: The female Borneo Pygmy elephant found dead at Felcra Berhad Estate, Danum, Lahad Datu, last month died of organ failure, confirmed Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
She said post-mortem findings ruled out wildlife crime, with only small old scars detected on the carcass and no signs of new wounds or injuries.
The carcass, believed to be that of a nine to ten-year-old female, was first spotted by a plantation worker and reported to the Sabah Wildlife Department, which initially held back conclusions pending lab results.
A joint investigation and post-mortem were conducted the following day, with organ samples sent for further laboratory analysis to determine the cause of death.
Liew commended the swift response of the Sabah Wildlife Department and reminded that every case of mortality involving the Borneo Pygmy elephant underlined the importance of protecting their habitat and ensuring their survival.