KUALA LUMPUR – The Kelantan deputy menteri besar is apparently doubling down on his comments on illegal logging and tiger encroachment in his state.
Today, Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian that while there are illegal logging activities in his state, it is not a serious matter and not the cause of tigers encroaching into Orang Asli villages.
After attending the state executive councillors meeting at Kota Darulnaim, Amar told reporters that illegal logging in Kelantan is not a serious problem compared with other states.
He added that there are villagers who cut forest trees to clear the area for farming, and planting durian and oil palm trees.
Nevertheless, he said those activities are illegal and action will be taken against offenders.
However, these illegal logging activities, he said, do not threaten tigers and are not the reason behind the animals roaming into Orang Asli villages in Gua Musang.
“According to the Wildlife Department (Perhilitan), the tiger encroached on these villages because they were sick.
“The tiger’s illness forced the animal to search for food in the villages instead.”
He said Perhilitan is tracking three tigers believed to still be roaming the Orang Asli settlements.
“Perhilitan has been unable to detect the remaining animals, as there were no signs of tigers near the village after one was shot recently.
“We advise the villagers against leaving their homes until all tigers have been captured.”
Recently, The Vibes reported that the Orang Asli villagers in Pos Bihai, Gua Musang are hesitant to venture outside their living quarters, affecting their ability to purchase daily goods and provide for their families.
Their fears are not unfounded as nearby areas had allegedly reported sightings of tigers at various occasions prior to the fatal mauling of a man on January 7. – The Vibes, January 26, 2022
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