Johor steps up efforts to protect Malayan tigers in Endau-Rompin

Johor is ramping up its efforts to safeguard the critically endangered Malayan tiger, with Endau-Rompin National Park designated as a crucial habitat for the species. Johor's Health and Environment Committee chairman, Ling Tian Soon, explained that the state is collaborating with the federal government to bolster tiger conservation initiatives.

These measures encompass enhancing the tigers' prey base, deploying more camera traps for monitoring, and ramping up patrols and enforcement. Ling, the committee chairman, disclosed that these plans were discussed during a recent meeting with the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry. With the 2020 survey data indicating a wild Malayan tiger population of no more than 150 individuals, Ling emphasized the urgent need for intensified conservation efforts.

Johor has earmarked funds for various conservation measures within Endau-Rompin National Park, such as fortifying the tigers' food chain, deploying additional camera traps, augmenting patrols and law enforcement, and procuring more sophisticated equipment. However, the implementation of these measures is contingent on approval from the relevant authorities.

Ling's remarks followed the ministry's announcement that the Malayan tiger population appears to be on the rise due to conservation initiatives, although the exact population figure remains undisclosed. The First National Tiger Survey, spanning from 2016 to 2020, revealed fewer than 150 Malayan tigers in the wild. This endangered species, scientifically termed Panthera tigris jacksoni, is exclusive to Peninsular Malaysia and is classified as critically endangered under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010.

Endau-Rompin is among Peninsular Malaysia's three primary tiger habitats, hosting a secluded yet growing tiger subpopulation, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Ling underscored that the Malayan tiger transcends being a national wildlife treasure for Johor, being intrinsically linked to the state's identity and the spirit of Bangsa Johor.

He reiterated the state's commitment to supporting and cooperating in the conservation of the Malayan tiger, expressing hope that this national treasure would survive in its natural habitat and be preserved for future generations.