PPSM Community Engages with Nature at Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, Lanchang, Pahang

The community of the Centre for Mathematical Sciences (PSM), Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), organised a meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme at the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, located within the Krau Wildlife Reserve in Lanchang, Pahang, on 15 November 2025. The sanctuary, situated approximately two hours from Kuala Lumpur, was established in 1989 by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) Malaysia as a centre for the management and relocation of wild elephants from human–wildlife conflict areas to safer natural habitats such as Taman Negara, with the aim of protecting this increasingly threatened species.

The CSR activities began with a safety briefing by officers of the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, followed by a communal clean-up of the elephant enclosures. Participants also had the opportunity to interact directly with the elephants, take part in educational sessions on wildlife conservation, join conservation tours, and experience bathing the elephants in the river. These activities provided valuable insights into the role of humans as stewards of the natural environment.

Currently, the sanctuary is home to approximately 17 Asian elephants, including several that have been relocated or trained for the management and translocation of other wild elephants. Among the notable highlights, the oldest elephant at the centre is around 70 years old, while the youngest is approximately one year old and was rescued from the forests of Gua Musang, Kelantan. The sanctuary also hosts elephants originating from various states, including Johor, Kelantan, and Pahang, reflecting a comprehensive national effort to protect wildlife across Peninsular Malaysia.

This CSR programme was not merely a physical activity but also served as an important awareness initiative on the significance of conserving natural habitats and ensuring the welfare of the Asian elephant, whose population in Peninsular Malaysia is estimated to be fewer than 1,500 individuals. It represents a collective effort to ensure that future generations can continue to witness the beauty and ecological importance of these magnificent animals.

PSM UMPSA extends its appreciation to all participants who contributed their time, energy, and commitment to the success of this programme. It is hoped that this experience will further strengthen values of compassion, social responsibility, and love for wildlife and the environment among all participants.

Dr. Nor Izzati Jaini