Majestic creature: There are fewer than 150 Malayan tigers in the wild. — AZMAN GHANI/The Star
Efforts to conserve the critically endangered Malayan tiger are being intensified through strategic collaborations between the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan), the police and Interpol, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister said for 2024 alone, RM200mil has been designated to expand and manage protected areas, including critical tiger habitats.
“To combat the illegal wildlife trade and poaching, Perhilitan has enhanced enforcement efforts by sharing intelligence and conducting joint operations with the police, Interpol and other relevant agencies,” Nik Nazmi said in a Parliamentary written reply.
Among the key initiatives outlined are the strengthening of the Wildlife Crime Unit (WCU), which operates as a rapid-response flying squad, and the establishment of a Wildlife Crime Intelligence Unit to gather data on wildlife offenders.
Additionally, he said investigations under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (Act 613) are being carried out to disrupt financial networks linked to wildlife crimes.
Nik Nazmi said Perhilitan’s ex-situ (off-site) conservation efforts have also gained momentum, with the National Wildlife Forensic Laboratory playing a pivotal role in providing forensic evidence for prosecutions.
He added that the laboratory is spearheading a programme to boost Malayan tiger numbers through natural breeding and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).
Nik Nazmi emphasised the government’s financial commitment to conservation, citing the Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Conservation (EFT) initiative, which has allocated RM550 million to state governments from 2019 to 2024.
“Conservation efforts are not limited to enforcement. We are also focusing on raising public awareness through communication, education and public awareness (CEPA) activities,” Nik Nazmi added.
He pointed to the Save the Malayan Tiger Campaign, which integrates conservation, enforcement, public engagement, corporate social responsibility, and sponsorship programmes.
Addressing ex-situ and in-situ (on-site) conservation, he said Perhilitan is implementing nine strategic actions under a 10-year plan (2021-2030) approved by the Cabinet, including amendments to the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716) to impose stricter penalties for poaching and wildlife trafficking.
“Despite significant challenges, the government remains committed to protecting the Malayan tiger for future generations,” Nik Nazmi added.
The Malayan tiger, a national symbol, has seen its population decline to fewer than 150 tigers left in the wild, making these initiatives urgent and critical.
