Kota Tinggi police chief Yusof Othman said the couple, aged 40 and 38 years old, were travelling in a Perodua Alza when four elephants suddenly crossed the road.

“The driver was unable to avoid them and crashed into one of the animals,” he was reported as saying by Bernama on the 9.20pm incident.

“The front of the couple’s vehicle was severely damaged in the collision. However, both of them were unharmed.”

Yusof said the elephants, including the one that was hit, were believed to have moved to a nearby forest after the incident. The victims have filed a police report for documentation and insurance claim.

“The authorities are advised to increase monitoring in the area, as the route is frequently used by wildlife, especially at night,” he said.