Sungai Deka Elephant Conservation Centre, Hulu Terengganu

“This place runs on generator power and has no fixed phone line or cellular service. What it lacks, it is made up by a team of wonderful, dedicated and passionate staff who cares for the elephants like their very own children. The patience and compassion they show in spite of the challenges they face - being isolated from family members, problematic water supply & electricity, insufficient tools and implements - they still give their all in loving and caring for the elephants. For that I am so grateful for the sacrifices of these unsung heroes. Located in between Tasik Kenyir and Felda Aring, the nearest civilisation is 16km and that is just a Felda settlement. The connecting roads are in bad state and not well maintained. Many cars have burst their tires or bent their wheel rims coming to this area. The nearest proper town is almost 100km away. For staff who needs to contact friends and family, they need to drive out to a bridge to get cellular service. This facility is under state purview so they do miss out on the larger Federal Government budget of Perhilitan. They are not able to receive cash donations from the public. At most they can only receive items from the public : e.g. elephant feeding bottles, tools etc. Kuala Gandah elephant sanctuary on the other hand is its own PTG and able to receive and use donations. If you want to assist, do consider this place (but not cash) as Kuala Gandah is already sufficiently funded. Sg Deka, in Malay parlance, is "dhaif". I have been here twice and will come back for more.”

“This place emerges on the right heading towards Kenyir Lake. There is no fee for visit but donation appreciated for upkeep. No restaurants or shops, but there is a toilet near the guard post at entrance.”

“far from home but nice and warm place”