Solo run seeks support for return of Dara, Amoi and Kelat

Animal welfare advocate Neow Choo Seong has embarked on a six-day solo endurance run from Taiping to Parliament in Kuala Lumpur to raise awareness and rally public support for the return of three Malaysian elephants currently housed at Tennoji Zoo in Japan.

Organised by the Solidariti Bersama DAK Secretariat, the initiative centres on Dara, Amoi and Kelat, three elephants that were transferred to Japan on March 10 this year. The campaign aims to draw attention to concerns surrounding the animals’ welfare and wellbeing while encouraging greater involvement from the Malaysian Government and relevant authorities in determining their future.

The run, which covers approximately 290 kilometres, began on June 17 and will conclude on June 22 at Parliament, coinciding with the opening day of the Parliamentary sitting.

Neow’s route takes him through several towns across Perak and Selangor, including Ipoh, Kampar, Tapah, Tanjung Malim and Selayang, before reaching the nation’s legislative institution.

In addition to testing physical endurance, the journey serves as a travelling awareness campaign. Along the route, Neow is engaging with local communities and supporters to highlight the importance of wildlife conservation and the protection of Malaysia’s natural heritage.

“This run is not about endurance alone. It is a journey of solidarity and a plea for compassion,” said Neow.

“Dara, Amoi and Kelat are part of Malaysia’s natural heritage. Since their transfer to Japan on 10 March 2026, there have been increasing concerns regarding their health and wellbeing. We believe the matter deserves urgent attention and should be openly tabled for debate in Parliament.”

Petition to be presented at parliament

The campaign will culminate with the presentation of a public petition at the main entrance of Parliament on June 22. The petition is expected to be handed to Ayer Hitam Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, with organisers expressing hope that the concerns raised can be deliberated in the Dewan Rakyat.

Neow said the campaign seeks to unite Malaysians from different backgrounds in support of the elephants’ welfare.

“I hope Malaysians from all walks of life will stand together in support of this cause and help amplify the call for the welfare of these elephants to be safeguarded and for every possible effort to be made to bring them home,” he said.

According to the Solidariti Bersama DAK Secretariat, the conclusion of the run is intended to encourage constructive dialogue among the Malaysian Government, relevant authorities and Tennoji Zoo regarding the future of the three elephants.

The campaign has drawn support from wildlife activists, environmental advocates, conservation experts, community leaders, public figures and social media influencers. Media partners supporting the initiative include Hot FM, Utusan TV and The Star. Hot FM presenters and crew are also expected to join the final stretch of the run from the Bank Negara checkpoint to Parliament.