Ways To Prevent Extinction

Endangered species must be protected. Malaysian government has taken steps to preserve this biodiversity and prevent further species extinction. Efforts are being taken to conserve and protect these species. To prevent habitat destruction and species extinction, the government has designated conservation areas where plants and animals are protected in their natural habitat in forest reserves and national parks. National and state parks, wildlife sanctuaries and marine parks, and forest reserves are examples of such areas. In these areas, agricultural and development activities, collecting of plants or plant parts, hunting or killing of animals are not allowed.

Another way of protecting animal species is by keeping and breeding them in captivity such as zoos. In 1967, it was found that the river terrapin (tenting sungai) was in danger of extinction because the eggs are collected to be sold and eaten. This prompted the setting up of the first captive breeding place in Bota Kanan, Perak in 1968. This programme is under the Department of Wildlife and National Parks.

Besides that, the government has also implemented a tighter legislation regarding the protection of plant and animal species. The government has endorsed laws to protect wildlife. It is against the law to hunt or kill these protected animals.

Introducing and enforcing laws is not enough. What is more important is educating the public and enhancing awareness about all aspects of Malaysia’s natural heritage, biodiversity and the importance of conservation. This can be done through school curriculum and programmes, and public campaigns to avoid consuming and using products made from any parts of endangered species.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as Malaysian Nature Society (Persatuan Pencinta Alam Malaysia), the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Malaysia, Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) and Environmental Protection Society of Malaysia (EPSM) have played an important role in complimenting efforts by the government to promote environmental consciousness among Malaysian public. It is very essential to educate the public and inculcate awareness of the importance of preservation and conservation.