Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian Highway Authority and Public Works Department have committed to ensuring that all new roads and highways will incorporate wildlife tunnels to provide safe passages for animals.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Works Ministry (KKR) highlighted the construction of a tunnel by the West Coast Expressway (WCE) along the Taiping Selatan-Bruas stretch as a successful example, following guidance and approval from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan).
The ministry expressed gratitude towards the WCE concession company for their efforts in establishing a dedicated underpass tunnel route, which facilitates the safe movement of wildlife across highways, thereby connecting different forest areas. The KKR further emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with Perhilitan to continually enhance wildlife preservation efforts.
The ministry also advised drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed when passing through designated wildlife crossing zones, which will be clearly marked with signs and streetlights.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi announced plans to conduct a comprehensive review of high-risk wildlife crossing areas nationwide. The review will consider integrating technology such as animal movement sensors to improve safety measures.
Linggi called on all stakeholders, including road users and local communities, to collaborate in maintaining the safety and sustainability of Malaysia’s environment, emphasizing that wildlife forms an integral part of the nation’s invaluable heritage. He stressed that sustainable development should include measures to protect natural resources alongside infrastructure growth.
Several initiatives are already underway by the ministry to tackle wildlife crossing challenges, including the construction of eco-viaducts and underground tunnels at crucial migration paths for elephants and other animals. Key locations identified for these initiatives include the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway (KLK), East Coast Highway Phase 2 (LPT2), Central Spine Road (CSR), East-West Highway (Gerik-Jeli), and the Taiping Selatan-Bruas stretch on the WCE.
The move comes in response to incidents such as a viral social media video showing a female elephant attempting to push a truck after her calf was fatally struck by a lorry, underscoring the urgent need for improved wildlife protection measures.