PUTRAJAYA: The Perak branch of the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) has deployed personnel to Kampung Takung, Pos Perwor, Sungai Siput, after receiving a report that an Orang Asli man was believed to have been killed in a tiger attack on Monday (Sept 21).
In a statement Tuesday (Sept 22), Perhilitan said its team would conduct search efforts, gather preliminary information, inspect the location and investigate to establish the actual circumstances of the incident.
The search operation is also being carried out with the assistance of the Royal Malaysia Police, the People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela), the Civil Defence Force and local residents.
“Based on preliminary information and observations at the scene, the victim, a 43-year-old man, was found in an area near a logging road.
“Initial observations also found signs of a struggle at the location believed to be related to the incident, while the distance between the site of the struggle and where the victim was found was estimated at about 200m,” it said.
Zamberi Angah, 42, was reported to have died after he was believed to have been attacked by a tiger while collecting rattan with his friend in the Korbu Forest Reserve near Kampung Takung, Pos Perwor, Sungai Siput, on Monday.
Perhilitan said investigations were still under way to confirm details of the incident, including its cause and the actual circumstances.
“Any further conclusion will be made based on the investigation findings and evidence obtained in the field,” it said.
The department said its personnel were monitoring and inspecting the area, including identifying signs of tiger presence, gathering information from local residents and setting traps at locations deemed suitable.
“Perhilitan views this incident seriously as it involves the safety and lives of local residents. Co-operation and co-ordination with the Department of Orang Asli Development (Jakoa), police, state authorities and the local community will continue to be strengthened to ensure that safety measures and the management of human-wildlife conflict can be implemented effectively,” it said.
Perhilitan advised residents in nearby areas to remain highly vigilant and avoid entering forests or areas identified as having signs of tiger presence, especially alone.
It also advised the public not to approach, chase, capture or take any action on their own against any tiger that may be sighted.
The department urged the public to immediately report any tiger sightings or signs of tiger presence through its hotline at 1-800-88-5151 or the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA) on its official website. — Bernama
