Semporna: The Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL), together with the General Operations Force (GOF), arrested three people during Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah yesterday for allegedly possessing and preparing wildlife as exotic meals for tourists at a resort in Semporna. Its director, Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar, stated that enforcement officers seized a live pangolin (Manis javanica), which is a totally protected species, as well as several prepared dishes believed to contain protected wildlife.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, several individuals were detained to assist in further investigations under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997. The pangolin is a totally protected species under Schedule I of the Enactment. Mohd Soffian emphasized that no licences or permits have been issued to any individual or establishment, including tourism premises, to possess, store, sell, or serve the species as food.

Upon conviction, offenders face a minimum fine of RM50,000 and a maximum fine of RM250,000, as well as a jail term of between one and five years. Mohd Soffian further mentioned that the department takes the preparation of protected wildlife as exotic meals for tourists seriously, as it is against the law and affects Sabah's reputation as a responsible nature tourism destination.

"The department gives a stern warning that enforcement actions will continue to be intensified against any tourism premises involved in wildlife-related crimes," he added.