GEORGE TOWN, December 2 – The mid-term review of the 12th Malaysia Plan, which pledges heightened protection for endangered species in Malaysia, has garnered praise from the Consumer’s Association of Penang (CAP). The proposal, encompassing the expansion of protected areas, community engagement, intensified enforcement against wildlife crimes, the extension of marine protected areas (MPAs), and a comprehensive review of the Fisheries Act with augmented penalties for marine ecosystem and species-related offenses, is laudable as it underscores the proactive measures required to safeguard endangered species from the brink of extinction.
Recent reports of regular sightings of elephants, tigers, panthers, and other endangered animals underscore a pressing issue that necessitates immediate attention. Each year, vast swathes of forests are lost to deforestation. According to the ‘Malaysia Information Forest and Data – Tropical Rainforest,’ Malaysia witnessed an annual forest loss averaging 96,000 hectares or 0.43% between 1990 and 2010. Over a decade, this cumulative loss of forest cover reached 8.6%, approximately 1,920,000 hectares. This is a grave concern, especially given Malaysia’s rapid pace of development.
Besides developmental pressures, the remaining forests are threatened by illegal and unsustainable logging, illicit removal of forest products, and forest encroachment driven by agricultural and urbanization activities. The consequences of deforestation are acutely felt by endangered species. In 2009, the National Tiger Conservation Action Plan aimed to double the Malayan tiger population to 1,000 by 2020. However, instead of witnessing an increase, estimates suggest a significant decline to fewer than 150 tigers. The failure of the plan remains unexplained by the authorities responsible.
To ensure the success of conservation efforts, it is imperative that the government not only formulates plans but also demonstrates a deep understanding, unwavering support, and unwavering commitment. Political will and determination to implement the recommendations are essential to save the tigers. Mining activities within permanent forest reserves, ecologically sensitive areas, and protected zones pose a significant threat to tiger conservation. CAP has expressed concern over authorities granting approval for mining in these regions. Such activities, whether within or adjacent to protected areas, have adverse environmental effects, including increased human-animal conflicts, wildlife poaching, habitat fragmentation, and pollution.
It is the hope of many that the government and its agencies will wholeheartedly uphold the provisions related to wildlife protection as outlined in the mid-term review of the 12th Malaysia Plan. Addressing wildlife-related challenges demands a structured framework comprising deliberate policies, adequate operational funding, and an empowered role for the Ministry of Wildlife and its department. These critical steps are essential to preserving the nation’s rich biodiversity and safeguarding the future of its endangered species.
