(MY) law to govern wildlife trade

[Guest guest]

Saturday December 10, 2005 - The Star

 

Backing for new law to govern international wildlife trade

 

SAHABAT Alam Malaysia (SAM) fully supports efforts by the Natural

Resources and Environment Ministry in drafting a new law to govern the

international trade in flora and fauna.

 

SAM further calls for the introduction of heavier penalties, including

significant increases in both monetary penalties and jail terms, to

deter illegal wildlife traders and poachers, together with active

enforcement and prosecution.

 

The recognition that wildlife is being wiped out by ever-hungry

traders because of the demanding markets is a powerful step towards

initiating positive changes in peoples' attitudes.

 

Comprehensive wildlife protection in line with the Convention on

International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna

(CITES) is a vital ingredient in combating the illegal wildlife trade.

 

High levels of wildlife trade in the South-East Asian region are

leading to unsustainable rates of harvesting, and are threatening

species that were once plentiful to the brink of extinction.

 

Tortoises and turtles are victims of multibillion-dollar exploitative

international trade in endangered species, next to tigers, rhinos,

primates and exotic birds

 

It is now time to initiate steps to prevent crimes against wildlife,

which has acquired menacing dimensions in our country. The crimes must

be tackled with the gravity they deserve.

 

As traffickers are constantly perfecting their techniques, the help of

veterinarians and other experts are often required, whether it be at

the entry points or at the point of sale.

 

Since the distinction between trafficking and legal trade is not

always clear-cut, familiarity with the rules and regulations is

indispensable.

 

In coming out with a comprehensive law, the Ministry must look into:

 

·THE pet shop trade which is mushrooming everywhere to cater to the

exotic pet craze and their alien invasion of our natural habitats;

 

·THE booming business in the sale of wildlife meat in restaurants;

 

·THE exploitation of wildlife in the staging of regular shows to pull

in the crowds; and,

 

·THE need to govern mini-zoos, bird parks and wildlife parks that are

private or individually owned.

 

Unless there is care and commitment from the highest level, all

wildlife may be wiped out soon.

 

 

 

S.M. MOHD IDRIS,

President,

Sahabat Alam Malaysia.