Published in The Star, 1 March 2005
Dear Sir,
I was concerned by the articles in the Star of 22nd February about the
captive breeding programme operated in Janda Baik without legitimate
authorization. It seems apparent that this particular breeder has a special
relationship with someone in Perhilitan, and the fact that it can’t be
explained in an acceptable manner is extremely worrying. The trade in and
ownership of protected species is a crucial test of Malaysia’s commitment to
the preservation of biodiversity, and I strongly support the initiative of
the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment in questioning the
legality of this breeder.
The problem of the trade in protected species is not easily solved. It is
the third largest illegal international trade after drugs and weapons, and
government officers need much support if they are to contain it. It is a
sophisticated business that readily resorts to violence.
The recent closure of the Paya Indah Wetlands Sanctuary, however, might
offer a unique opportunity to improve the fate of illegally traded animals.
At present, I believe most animals that are recovered from the trade by
Perhilitan are destroyed, as Perhilitan does not have a sanctuary that it
can use as a transit point to stabilize these animals before they are
returned to the wild or to the countries where they were captured. (Some of
the more valuable species are placed in the Melaka Zoo, which is already
overcrowded.)
I would suggest that Paya Indah be turned into such a sanctuary. It could
be a vital showcase for eco-tourism, where some animals could be on display
and an educational programme would inform the public about our fauna, as
well as demonstrating Malaysia’s commitment to the preservation and
protection of its biodiversity.
I believe Paya Indah failed as it didn’t have a clear mission statement and
the concept of eco-tourism was poorly understood. By converting it into a
working institution with a definite conservation role that would engage the
public and tourists alike, it could be a unique destination for eco-tourism,
conservation and volunteerism.
Currently, many of our forests are developing the ’empty forest syndrome’,
where even if the forest is protected, the animals are no longer there. The
long term survival of the forest depends on the animals to pollinate
flowers, disperse seeds and ensure their germination. By reinforcing the
role of Perhilitan by providing the resources they need there is a chance
that we can reverse this trend and put some of the animals back where they
belong.
I do hope that the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment will
consider this suggestion.
Yours sincerely,
Angela Hijjas
Chairman, Selangor Branch
Malaysian Nature Society