protect exotic animals

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New Straits Times - Letters

 

Strict measures needed to protect exotic animals

 

May 24: POACHING of exotic animals and protected species is rampant in

almost every country. The intensive hunting for these animals will result in

their extinction. It is, therefore, imperative that the authorities take

strict measures to protect these animals.

 

In Africa, the various governments have clamped down on poaching of wild

elephants by setting up Anti-Poaching Armed Units.

 

In our country, according to a recent NST report, the authorities have set

up a hi-tech DNA unit. The DNA test can determine even the sex of the animal

killed. I feel the DNA tests on animal remains and carcasses are sheer waste

of time and public funds.

 

Instead, we should go after the poachers or destroy their markets and

network. As long as there is demand for such products, there will be an

abundance of supply.

 

DNA tests will not help curb poaching. A more practical approach is needed

to address this problem.

 

I am told that nefarious characters have enlisted the expertise of Orang

Asli in Mersing and elsewhere to ensnare wild boars on a big scale. In the

process, they entrap other animals like tigers, deers, civet cats and

protected species.

 

These culprits provide free all implements and paraphernalia for the Orang

Asli to lay the traps. The wild boars and other protected animals caught are

loaded on to containers and exported to Thailand.

 

The authorities should send their enforcement unit to check on restaurants

that dish out these exotic meat to customers and take them to the courts.

The issuance of export licences for meat, skin, and other animal parts too

should be strictly regulated to prevent abuse.

 

N. Chendra Yasan Ulu Tiram

 

 

 

 

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