Tanjung Malim:Malayan tigers will only be captured or relocated if they are deemed a threat to public safety, according to the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Perhilitan director Dr. Pazil Abdul Patah explained that the decision to capture tigers is based on an assessment considering factors such as the animal's behavior, sighting frequency and duration, proximity to residential areas, movement patterns, and any evidence of interactions or attacks on humans or livestock.

Perhilitan has recorded five tiger-related incidents in Perak from January to October this year. The first was a report of a roar in Proton City, Tanjung Malim on January 10. This was followed by a captured image in Bukit Bangkong, Chemor on July 14, and the capture of a tigress in Hulu Kinta on July 22. A fatal attack occurred in Pos Perwor, Sungai Siput on September 21, and tiger footprints were found at Kem Sultan Nazrin Shah, 69 Komando, Ulu Kinta on September 29.

Dr. Pazil noted that sightings near human settlements do not necessarily indicate shrinking habitats. Factors such as prey availability, habitat conditions, human disturbance, development, and natural movements influence tiger movements. Tigers may traverse forest edges or ecological corridors near human areas by chance.

Perhilitan monitors prey species like barking deer, deer, and wild boar in main forest reserves using camera traps, field surveys, and population data. Complaints about sightings are evaluated based on location, time, physical evidence, and the current situation to prioritize personnel deployment for public safety.

In addition to setting traps, Perhilitan offers technical advice and safety guidance. Residents in high-risk areas are advised not to go out alone during early mornings or late evenings, avoid provoking tigers, and leave case handling to the department.