George town: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, 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. He emphasized that the disappearance of tigers would destabilize forest ecosystems that regulate water supply, biodiversity, climate resilience, and natural resources, leading to the irreversible loss of a national heritage that defines Malaysia's identity.
Mohideen pointed out that escalating threats, including poaching, depletion of prey, human-tiger conflict, and road-related mortality, are pushing the species ever closer to extinction. He highlighted that between 2023 and 2024, six tiger deaths were reported due to vehicle collisions, with a particularly disturbing case last year where a tiger carcass was discovered hidden in the boot of a car, bearing six gunshot wounds to the head.
The global trade in tiger skins and teeth, often sold as amulets, poses a significant threat to the endangered species and hinders conservation efforts. Mohideen noted 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. Despite having no scientific basis, these beliefs continue to create demand for such items, leading to tigers being hunted or poached for profit and status.
In Malaysia, tiger skins and teeth are reportedly available through e-commerce platforms, reflecting the ease with which these items can be obtained. While acknowledging the efforts of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Orang Asli communities, and government agencies like the Malaysian Armed Forces, police, and the Forestry Department, CAP expressed concern over a reported rise in illegal poaching.
Mohideen stated 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, and greater involvement of Orang Asli communities, who possess in-depth knowledge of forest ecosystems.