An awareness campaign on the conservation of pangolins being held at a primary school.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah wildlife authorities worked with key local conservation groups to hold a host of initiatives for the protection and conservation of pangolins throughout the state.
The pangolin is classified as a Schedule 1 "totally protected species" under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997.
“Pangolins are endangered species and protecting them is a priority under Sabah law,” said Sabah Wildlife Department director Augustine Tuuga, in a statement.
“We are serious and will rigorously apprehend and prosecute violators. Our recent efforts demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding this species," he added.
Among the initiatives held was an awareness programme to celebrate World Pangolin Day 2024 on Tuesday (April 30).
The department, together with conservation partners Pangolin Aware, Land Empowerment Animals People (LEAP) and Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort, organised this event for the second time after the same celebration in the Tanjung Aru Library here.
The "Pangolin Conservation in the Kinabatangan" workshop, co-organised by LEAP and Pangolin Aware, also marked a pivotal event in the region’s conservation efforts.
Bringing together stakeholders from the plantation, tourism, and local community sectors, this workshop fostered unprecedented collaboration.
Furthermore, the Sabah Wildlife Department has made significant upgrades in collaboration with its partners to rescue and rehabilitation equipment to enhance the handling and care of rescued pangolins.
Specialised transportation crates have been introduced, ensuring the safe and humane transfer of these vulnerable animals back to their natural habitats.
Awareness and educational campaigns have played a crucial role in broadening the reach of pangolin conservation messages.
Highlights include Pangolin Awareness Week and extensive billboard campaigns, which have engaged communities across multiple locations.
Notable venues include the Sabah State Library – Tanjung Aru, Rasa Ria Reserve, and schools in Tuaran and Penampang, districts such as SK Moyog, SK Tinambak, SK Rangalau Baru, SK Pahu, Sk Bawang, SK Sg. Damit, and SK Bantayan.
Plans are already in place to expand these educational programmes to more schools in Tuaran and other districts, continuing this vital outreach.
“Ongoing commitment to pangolin protection educational initiatives have made a noticeable difference in public perception and behaviour towards these animals," said Elisa Panjang, a local biologist and the founder of Pangolin Aware.
"I urge the public to be their own ambassadors for pangolins and continue to educate their circles.
“Please report any illegal activities or any cases whereby pangolins need to be rescued to the Sabah Wildlife Department,” she said.
The easiest way, she added, is through their Facebook Page, 5R Hidupan Liar or email to nurain.acheh@sabah.gov.my or text a message to 014-9000061.
