Leaping at chance to save tigers

The latest survey shows the Malayan tiger population has dwindled to less than 150. – Filepic Tee (left pic, second from left) presenting a mock cheque to Rimau committee member Harun Rahman (third from right).

MALAYSIA is internationally recognised as one of the countries with mega biodiversity, based on the number of species found.

Unfortunately, the Malayan tiger is on the verge of extinction.

According to the latest National Tiger Survey, the estimated Malayan tiger population is less than 150. It is estimated that the Malayan tiger will be extinct within the next five to 10 years, unless extraordinary measures are taken for its immediate conservation.

In supporting this urgent cause, Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd (KLK) has presented a cash donation of RM140,000 to Persatuan Pelindung Harimau Malaysia (Rimau).

This will go to the Menraq Patrol Unit comprising 40 rangers of the indigenous Jahai tribe who are focused on monitoring poachers at the Royal Belum State Park in Perak.

Rimau is a non-governmental organisation devoted to protecting the Malayan tiger and its habitat.

Rimau is engaging in various joint efforts with relevant parties, such as the Wildlife and National Parks Department of Peninsular Malaysia (Perhilitan) as well as corporate organisations to put an end to tiger poaching activities.

“In view of the declining Malayan tiger population at such a critical level, we have decided to partner Rimau in this conservation initiative,” said KLK Plantation general manager Tee Ming Chong.

“We believe the joint efforts with Rimau and various other stakeholders could bring the tiger numbers up to a sustainable level in time to come,” he said.

Rimau vice-president David Mizan said: “On behalf of Rimau, I am delighted to accept this generous donation from KLK. I have known the leaders of the company for many years and have been impressed by their personal commitment to environmental concerns.

“I am aware that they have many active environmental conservation initiatives, not only in Malaysia but also in Indonesia and Liberia where they own oil palm plantations.

“They take very seriously stakeholder engagement and are working hard to reduce their carbon footprint.

“Kudos to KLK for being a sustainability leader in the palm oil industry. And thanks again for this support for Rimau!”

As part of its community engagement initiative, KLK has also donated essential food items to 260 indigenous families in Royal Belum State Park.

“It has been a tough time for many over the past few years. We hope our small contribution to the community here brings some relief to the families.” said Tee.

“It is also a token of appreciation as they play an extremely important role in protecting the forests, especially where they live.

“We hope our collaboration with Rimau will help ensure our tigers are safe and will also have a positive impact in the long run for all, including the surrounding communities,” he added.