Through their drawings, Malaysian children show their concern for endangered animals

Hua Xiao Min, seven

What do the Sumatran rhinoceros, amur leopard, orangutan and pandas have in common? While these are among the most loved animals on the planet, they are also endangered species.

There are very few of these species of animals left in the world.

Once the species is gone, they are considered extinct. Last year, Iman - Malaysia’s last remaining Sumatran - died.

Although many people love animals, there are many things humans do that can cause animals to become extinct, for example damage their habitats by polluting the environment.

Endangered Species Day is celebrated on May 15. In conjunction with this special day, we asked Starchild readers to share facts about their favourite endangered animal. Here’s what they had to say.

Low Jin Kai, seven

Low Jin Kai, seven, writes: “Orangutans have red-brown fur. Deforestation has caused the destruction of the orangutan habitat. Orangutans are from the rainforests on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra in South-East Asia.”

Yasvwan Sugamarum, nine

Yasvwan Sugamarum, nine, says, “The tiger is an endangered species. They are illegally hunted for their pelt, meat and body parts (used in folk medicines).

To protect this animal, we must look after their habitat.”

Jaynee Lai, four

Jaynee Lai, four, says: “We need to build a house on the beach with a lock so the turtles can lay eggs safely.”

“Three facts about the endangered species are man’s intervention for animals’ fur, habitat loss and hunting.

Jane Ng Ai Wen, seven

“We should reduce development to protect wildlife habitats, ” writes seven-year-old Jane Ng Ai Wen.

Lohiishaan Yugesharan, nine

Gilbert Yong Wei Liang, six

Find the list of endangered animals in the wordsearch puzzle!

ITEM: Milk is a wonderful source of nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and healthy fats.

It provides instant energy to the body and helps to keep our us bones strong and healthy. World Milk Day is celebrated on June 1. Starchild wants readers to share the benefits of milk. How about sharing some of your favourite drinks made using milk. Don’t forget to send us your drawing.

E-mail your contributions to [e-mail] by May 29. Please put “STARCHILD: World Milk Day” in the subject line of your e-mail. Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200 dpi.

Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone contact, and address.