We refer to the letter entitled Let no more Anson Wongs arise from SM Mohd Idris of Sahabat Alam Malaysia and we truly appreciate the concerns highlighted by the writer with regards to the issue of animal trafficking.

First and foremost, we would like reiterate that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) is very committed in protecting the wildlife in this country with the involvement of the public, NGOs, various government agencies and the private sector.

In an effort to curb wildlife smuggling in the country, the ministry through its Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) works very closely with other enforcement agencies such as the Royal Customs and Excise Department, the Royal Malaysian Police, the Malaysian Armed Forces, the Anti Smuggling Unit and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency. The cooperation among these agencies has successfully foiled 43 smuggling attempts since 2005.

Besides that, the department has established 13 wildlife surveillance posts at strategic entry and exit points along the international boundary to further enhance efforts to curb wildlife smuggling.

Regionally, through Asean Wildlife Enforcement (Asean-WEN) Network, the department has taken concerted efforts to combat wildlife crime since its establishment in October 2004. Regular meetings have been conducted among the 10 Asean-WEN member countries involving the police, customs and environment agencies as well as NGOs.

Through this network, the department has succeeded in foiling 306 attempted smuggling and confiscated wildlife destined for overseas countries illegally including the arrest of several suspected smugglers between 2004 and 2009.

The department has also successfully brought four cases to court since the International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2010 (Act 686) came into force. Sentences such as imprisonment from six months to a year and fine between RM15,000 to RM190,000 have been delivered by the court.

A total of 600 head of wildlife from various species such as Madagascar Tortoises, Radiated Tortoises, Red-tailed boas, Birds of Paradise and Tomato frogs have been rescued.

In addition, the department is continuing to enhance the capabilities of the officers in the areas of enforcement, integrity and professionalism. Steps have been taken by the department in ensuring enforcement personnel are well-trained and equipped with the relevant knowledge to detect and curb any wildlife related crime.

The ministry is also optimistic that all issues on wildlife would be eventually addressed accordingly through the new law which carries stiffer penalties to offenders. Hence, we would like to take this opportunity to invite NGOs, public institutions and the public to cooperate in reporting any crime related to wildlife to us.

Should any clarification be needed further, please do not hesitate to contact the department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) at [email protected]

The writer is attached to the Corporate Communications Unit, Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, Putrajaya .