Country’s first tapir conservation centre will be in Jelebu

A juvenile tapir in Zoo Negara, with World Tapir Day being celebrated to instill greater concern and protection for this endangered species - Photo courtesy of Malaysian Nature Society.

SEREMBAN: Malaysia’s first tapir conservation centre will be built at the Kenaboi Forest Reserve/State Park, Jelebu in Negri Sembilan, said Wildlife and National Parks Depart­ment (Perhilitan) state director Wan Mat Wan Harun.

“The rationale behind it is Perhilitan hasn’t got a dedicated conservation centre for a comprehensive tapir treatment, rehabilitation and breeding programme despite the rising number of the animals being rescued every year.