T’ganu beefs up patrols, sets camera traps after more tiger sightings

KUALA LUMPUR – Beefing up ranger patrolling units and installing camera traps are among the steps taken by the government to preserve the existence of Malayan tigers while ensuring their safe coexistence with locals in Dungun, Terengganu.

Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, when speaking during Minister Question Time in Dewan Rakyat, said at least 13 additional personnel from the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) and Wildlife Rangers have been added to the area, along with two more camera traps.

He said these steps were part of the ministry’s Wildlife and Biodiversity Protection Patrolling Programme to ensure the large cats’ safe coexistence with humans.

Takiyuddin spoke of how the jungles of Hulu Paka at the edge of Dungun have also been equipped with 20 more camera traps to monitor the animal’s movements, together with two tiger traps.

“Those who encounter the animal are strongly advised to report it to police or Perhilitan and immediately seek shelter and protection at home or anywhere appropriate while waiting for the relevant authorities.

“And – this is important – do not provoke the animal in any way, or try to get close to the tiger, chase it away, throw objects at it, and definitely not shoot or kill the tiger to avoid being mauled.

“The people’s awareness and concern are vital in ensuring the survival and longevity of the national icon,” he told Dewan Rakyat today.

Early this month, food delivery rider Mohd Shafiq Mamat, 27, claimed he was attacked by a tiger in Taman Bersekutu, Dungun while on his way home at night.

He claimed the tiger crept up and appeared on the right side of his motorcycle and tried to pounce on him, before he sped off as fast as he could.

Another measure being taken by the government towards tiger preservation is the formation of the National Tiger Conservation Task Force (MyTTF) headed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, which serves to scrutinise preservation measures by its agencies.

Takiyuddin said one approach enforced by MyTTF is a more “boots on the ground” involving the police, armed forces, and veterans of the two forces, Perhilitan rangers, and members of the local Orang Asli community who patrol the areas of interest to reduce the chances of the tiger threatening the safety of the public.

“Steps are also being taken to maintain their habitats and to stop encroachment into the jungle areas, clamping down on illegal poaching while increasing the overall forestry area,” he said.

Takiyuddin added how the government aims to have 50% of Malaysia’s land covered by forests as part of environmental preservation efforts. – The Vibes, March 24, 2022