WWF-Malaysia Describes Killing Of Malayan Tiger As National Shame, Urges Tough Action

JOHOR BAHRU, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- The World Wide Fund for Nature Malaysia (WWF-Malaysia) has described the killing of a Malayan tiger in Johor, on Malaysia Day, as a national tragedy and shame, calling for offenders to face the full weight of the law without compromise.

WWF-Malaysia senior conservation director Dr Henry Chan said the discovery of the tiger carcass inside a car in Felda Tenggaroh, Mersing, and the arrest of three individuals linked to the case yesterday, was a tragic blow, especially as the species is critically endangered with fewer than 150 left in the wild.

“The Malayan tiger is not only a critically endangered species, but also our national icon. To have one snared and gunned down on the very day Malaysians honour the formation of our nation is nothing short of tragic and shameful. It is a crime against our ecosystem and against the spirit of our nation,” he said in a statement today.

He stressed that despite years of effort and sacrifice by conservationists and enforcement agencies, poachers continue to slaughter the majestic animal for short-term gain.

“To kill one of fewer than 150 tigers left in Malaysia is beyond reckless; it is cruel. Crimes like these are an insult to our nation and must be punished with the full weight of the law – swift and uncompromising,” he said.

Under the amended Wildlife Conservation Act 2022, those convicted of killing a Malayan tiger face fines of up to RM1 million and imprisonment of up to 15 years under Section 71.

Dr Chan urged authorities to fully enforce these penalties to send a clear message that Malaysia will not tolerate the slaughter of its national symbol.

He noted that the Malayan tiger remains threatened by shrinking forests, loss of habitat, reduced prey base and poaching, leaving the species dangerously vulnerable.

WWF-Malaysia also expressed solidarity with other conservation groups, including RIMAU, WCS Malaysia, PELINDUNG, TRAFFIC, Panthera Malaysia, MYCAT and the Malaysian Nature Society, alongside its corporate partner Maybank and donors, in demanding justice for the tiger.

Meanwhile, Dr Chan commended the swift action of Bukit Aman and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) in apprehending the suspects, and praised the public for providing information that led to the arrests.

“This underscores how vital it is for the public to remain vigilant and report wildlife crime without hesitation. Protecting this species is not just a conservation issue — it is about protecting Malaysia’s pride, heritage and future,” he said.

WWF-Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to work with enforcement authorities, government agencies, partners and the public to strengthen efforts in combating wildlife crime.

-- BERNAMA