CAP Warns Of Catastrophic Decline In Malayan Tiger Population; Fewer Than 150 Left

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 8 (Bernama) -- The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) has sounded an urgent alarm over the catastrophic decline of Malaysia’s Malayan tiger population, warning that the species is on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 150 tigers remaining in the wild.

CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said that the situation is not merely a conservation emergency but a national crisis with far-reaching ecological and cultural consequences.

“The disappearance of tigers would destabilise forest ecosystems that regulate water supply, biodiversity, climate resilience and natural resources. It would also mean the irreversible loss of a national heritage that defines Malaysia’s identity.

“Escalating threats, including poaching, depletion of prey, human-tiger conflict and road-related mortality, are pushing the species ever closer to extinction,” he said in a statement today.

He noted that between 2023 and 2024 alone, six tiger deaths were reported due to vehicle collisions. In a particularly disturbing case last year, a tiger carcass was discovered hidden in the boot of a car, bearing six gunshot wounds to the head.

Mohideen also highlighted the global trade in tiger skins and teeth, often sold as amulets, as a major threat to the endangered species and a serious obstacle to conservation efforts.

He said that in some cultures, tiger skins are regarded as symbols of power, wealth or protection, while tiger teeth and claws are believed to bring strength, courage or good luck when worn as amulets.

“These beliefs, passed down through generations, continue to create demand despite having no scientific basis. As a result, tigers are hunted or poached not for survival, but for profit and status.

“In Malaysia, there are various ways to obtain tiger skins and teeth. An online search reveals that tiger skins and teeth are readily available through e-commerce platforms,” he said.

While acknowledging the efforts of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Orang Asli communities and government agencies including the Malaysian Armed Forces, police and the Forestry Department, CAP expressed concern over a reported rise in illegal poaching.

Accordingly, Mohideen said that CAP is calling for stronger anti-poaching measures, increased funding for patrols and enforcement, efforts to confront corruption within wildlife crime networks, better protection and connectivity of forest habitats, as well as greater involvement of Orang Asli communities, who possess in-depth knowledge of forest ecosystem.

-- BERNAMA