Heartbreak and hope as injured elephant ‘Sulong’ treks 100km back to Gua Musang

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 26 - An injured wild male elephant, affectionately named Sulong Chalil, has become the subject of national attention after traveling across the Titiwangsa Range along the East-West Highway to return to his home habitat in Gua Musang, Kelantan. The elephant, previously relocated to Gerik, Perak, has drawn widespread sympathy on social media due to his injury to his right front leg.

The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) is closely monitoring Sulong's welfare and movements, confirming that he remains in stable condition with a drying and healing wound. To ensure road safety, Perhilitan teams are deployed twice daily to track the elephant and guide him away from expressway traffic.

The story of Sulong gained traction after social media user Mohd Fadli Salleh shared details about his background. Salleh explained that the name Chalil originated from Gua Musang, where the elephant used to roam before being captured. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks relocated Sulong to Gerik, and he was later spotted walking in the direction of Kelantan on Aug 17. Local motorists noted that Sulong did not show any aggressive behavior.

Images of the limping elephant have prompted an outpouring of support and prayers online, with many wishing for his safe return to his original home. Perhilitan has reported encouraging signs in Sulong's recovery, and the elephant is now near Jeli, having trekked over 100 kilometers through the Titiwangsa Range.