Humans the only predator of Malayan porcupine in our forests, says MNS

Chow says Malayan porcupine is sought after for its meat which is claimed to be rich in protein.

DESPITE being armed with sharp quills, the Malayan porcupine is not able to defend itself from being killed.

Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) president Vincent Chow said the Malayan porcupine was a nocturnal animal, which meant it would rest during the day and become active at night.

“There is no other predator that hunts the Malayan porcupine in our forests other than humans,” he said when contacted by StarMetro.

Chow said deforestation to make way for plantations had impacted all wildlife habitats in the country, including the Malayan porcupine.

“Plantation owners consider the porcupines as pests as they eat seedlings, including oil palm.

“There are also people who hunt these creatures because of their meat.

“They claim that porcupine meat is rich in protein,” he said.

Chow also said there was a demand for Malayan porcupine in traditional medicine.

“Inside the animal’s stomach is a stone that is highly sought after by traditional medical practitioners who claim it can cure all sorts of illnesses.

“Because of this, there is always high demand for Malayan porcupines, especially in the black market,” he added.

Authorities in Johor, including the police and the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) have been doing their best to curb poaching in the state.

This was after Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar expressed his disgust over illegal poaching activities in 2020.

His Majesty stressed that hunting was not allowed in Johor except to control wild animals at farms or agricultural areas.