A beloved pygmy elephant named Sabre was recently poached for his tusks in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. This news came shortly after another male elephant's body was found in the same area, his face cut off for his tusks. Poaching had previously not been a considerable problem in Sabah. However, the evidence suggests that a professional hunter and trader has now begun work here.
Last October, Sabre was moved from a palm oil plantation to Kawang Forest Reserve, where rescuers believed he would be safe. Wildlife veterinarian Pakeeyaraj Nagalingam told the Guardian, “There are no words to express our sadness.”
Only 1,500 of Borneo's precious pygmy elephants remain alive today. Populations have dwindled as forests have been converted into commercial plantations. Ecologically, pygmy elephants not only depend upon the forests, but are also essential for maintaining them by dispersing seeds.
Having been involved in elephant conservation efforts, I view the loss of every individual killed by poachers as a tragedy. Elephants are highly intelligent, empathic beings – they express joy and grief, assist one another when they are injured, and share lifelong family bonds. The murder of such compassionate, magnificent beings for their ivory is an act of unspeakable cruelty.
Please sign this petition urging the government of Sabah to ensure that the perpetrators who killed Sabre and his fellow elephant for their tusks are found and prosecuted to the maximum penalties of the law. This petition will also request that local wildlife conservation and rescue agencies receive the necessary government support to prevent future similar incidents from occurring. Please demand justice for Sabre and speak on behalf of elephants who are in danger – sign and share this petition today!
Dear Honorable Chief Minister Aman:
I am deeply saddened by the news that beloved elephant Sabre and another male pygmy elephant were poached for their tusks in Sabah. Sadly, the evidence indicates that a professional hunter and trader has begun work in the area.
Only 1,500 of Borneo's precious pygmy elephants remain alive today. Populations have dwindled as forests have been converted to commercial plantations. Ecologically, pygmy elephants not only depend upon the forests, but are also essential for maintaining them by dispersing seeds.
Elephants are highly intelligent, empathic beings – they express joy and grief, assist one another when they are injured, and share lifelong family bonds. The murder of such compassionate, magnificent beings for their ivory is an act of unspeakable cruelty.
I urge the government of Sabah to ensure that the perpetrators who killed Sabre and his fellow elephant for their tusks are found and prosecuted to the maximum penalties of the law. I also request that local wildlife conservation and rescue agencies receive the necessary government support to prevent future similar incidents from occurring.
Thank you for your consideration.
[Your comments]
Sincerely,
[Your name]
