Tragic Incident: Mother Elephant Tries to Save Her Calf Killed by Truck in Malaysia

A heartbreaking incident happened early Sunday morning, May 5, in Perak, northern Malaysia. A young baby elephant was killed after being hit by a large truck. The accident took place on a highway that passes through a forest area.

After the crash, the mother elephant was seen trying to push the truck away with her head and trunk. Sadly, her calf was already dead, trapped under the front part of the vehicle. Videos of the mother’s desperate attempt quickly went viral. Many Malaysians were moved to tears by the touching scene.

Later, wildlife officials arrived at the site. They gave the adult elephant a sedative and moved her safely back to her herd. The calf’s body was also removed by the authorities.

This tragic event has led to calls for better road safety for wild animals. Wildlife activist and former politician, Lee Lam Thye, said more needs to be done. He asked the government to build more wildlife crossings on roads passing through forests. He added that many animals like tapirs and elephants are killed each year in road accidents while searching for food.

“These accidents not only kill precious animals but also put drivers at risk,” Lee said in a statement to The Star newspaper.

Experts from the University of Putra Malaysia suggested some solutions. They recommended installing motion sensors, rumble strips, and raised animal crossings. Road safety expert Teik Hua Law said these changes, along with better signs and awareness campaigns, could save lives.

Malaysia’s environment minister shared a shocking number. Since 2020, 2,361 wild animals have died in road accidents. This includes eight elephants.

Malaysia is home to many wild animals. Over 360 types of mammals live in its forests, including elephants and tapirs.

Scientists say elephants feel emotions like humans. In a recent study in India, researchers found that elephants even hold funeral-like rituals. In five cases, elephant herds were seen carrying dead calves with their trunks and legs. They then buried them in the ground, legs facing up. These burials happened far from people, near tea estates. The dead calves were between 3 months and 1 year old and had died from organ failure.

This incident is a sad reminder of how dangerous roads can be for wildlife. Many believe urgent action is needed to protect animals and drivers.