Wedding procession featuring elephant in Malaysia draws animal welfare criticism
A video circulating on social media appears to show a groom being escorted on an elephant during a wedding procession in Malaysia, sparking debate over animal welfare concerns and cultural practices. Authorities have not confirmed the details, while claims about the event and the elephant’s identity remain unverified.
MALAYSIA: A video circulating on social media has drawn widespread attention after appearing to show a groom being escorted into a wedding venue while riding an elephant in Malaysia.
The footage, which has been widely shared online, shows the groom seated on a chair mounted on the elephant’s back as it moves through a decorated wedding procession.
The animal is also seen wearing ornamental decorations during the event.
Social media users have since raised questions about animal welfare, cultural practices, and whether the use of elephants in such settings remains appropriate.
According to unverified claims circulating online, the wedding may have been organised for the daughter of a woman referred to as a “Datin”, a Malaysian honorific title typically used for the wife of a man holding the title “Dato."
These claims have not been confirmed by authorities.
The elephant has been alleged by some users to be “Sanum”, a female elephant believed to be around 20 years old and associated with the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, Pahang. However, this has not been independently verified.
Elephants in Malaysia are fully protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010, and their use in public events is subject to regulation.
Animal welfare concerns raised online
The video prompted criticism from many social media users, who argued that elephants should not be used for ceremonial rides or entertainment.
Several commenters pointed to international animal welfare concerns surrounding elephant riding, which critics say can place physical strain on elephants and may involve practices that negatively affect their welfare.
Others questioned whether elephants are physically suited to carrying riders and expressed concern for the animal shown in the video.
"Are they stupid? Elephants are not meant for riding. Their spine is very fragile. Poor elephant."
Debate over tradition and modern animal welfare standards
Not all reactions were critical.
Some users argued that elephant processions have historical significance in Malay royal traditions, where elephants were once used during ceremonial events and royal weddings as symbols of status and prestige.
One commenter said such practices could be viewed as part of Malaysia's cultural heritage but should remain limited and carefully regulated.
"This is the elephant procession ceremony for the King of Pahang in the past. Personally, I don’t think there’s a problem with it if it’s meant to preserve our traditional Malay culture. However, I don’t agree if it becomes a trend among wealthy individuals. The authorities should set clear schedules and limit how many times such elephant ceremonies are allowed in a year for each elephant. This is just my personal view as someone who appreciates Malay culture.”
Some users questioned whether the relevant authorities would respond to the incident, with several tagging the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) in their comments.
They urged officials to investigate and take action over the use of the elephant in the wedding procession.
Authorities yet to comment
At the time of writing, PERHILITAN and NRES had not publicly commented on the video.
