Panthera Tigris - Wherefore art Thou?

Originally Posted on November 16, 2005

This letter was published in The Star on 18th October 2005 and News Straits Times on 19th October 2005.

I was truly heart-broken and saddened at the sight of the Malayan Tiger (Panthera Tigris) - once stood majestic - now being reduced to butchered meat. It brought tears to my eyes but these were not only tears of sadness. I am disappointed, appalled and extremely outraged that poaching is going on rampantly beneath the noses of the authorites entrusted to guard one of our national treasures - the flora and fauna of one of the oldest rainforest in the world. I believe many concerned Malaysians felt the same way I did.

It is estimated by Department of Wildlife (Perhilitan) that there are less than 500 tigers left in our forest. Despite the small number left in our country, we support the largest known tiger population in Southeast Asia. The tigers are in dire straits. I urge the Government to step up on the anti-poaching legislation which is long overdue. We are losing more and more protected wildlife for everyday that passes by without increased enforcement and stringent punishment on poachers. A tiger is said to fetch up to RM30,000 in the black market while the maximum fine for poaching it is only RM15,000. A possibility of more than a 100% profit gained despite conviction coupled with a few years in prison is not a good enough deterent for poachers.

As concerned Malaysians, we have a part to play too. Contact the Department of Wildlife (Perhilitan) when you see protected wildlife on sale. Do voice your concerns and opinions - quoting Datuk Dr Mikaail Kavanagh Abdullah, executive director of WWF-Malaysia, "Throw the book at everyone involved".