(MY) response to letter on zoos

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MAILBOX: Perhilitan (Wildlife) monitors wildlife caretakers - Malay Mail

Submitted by pekwan on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009

Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 03:11:00

 

 

[image: Wildlife] <http://www.mmail.com.my/content/18491-wildlife>

THE Ministry Of Natural Resources and Environment appreciates the concerns

highlighted by S. M. Mohd Idris of Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM), in his

letter “Take care of all zoos in Malaysia” (Malay Mail, Nov 3, 2009).

 

 

 

The ministry is aware of the growing concern among public and SAM on the

well being of wildlife kept at zoos.

 

The suggestions made by SAM are in parallel with the ministry’s plan in

making sure all zoos are best managed in terms of facilities and well being

of the wildlife.

 

The new proposed policy will look into ensuring all zoos are regulated and

welfare of wildlife is well taken care of. Under the Protection of Wildlife

Act 1972, the management of a zoo is required to get licence or special

permit issued by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan).

 

Moreover, Perhilitan is conducting regular visits to the zoos as a part of

the department’s enforcement

measures. Offences committed by any individual, including cruelty to the

wildlife, will be charged in the court while the ministry is also looking

into revoking licences or special permits for those found guilty of

committing such offences.

 

The ministry is hoping that with these actions in place, the zoos will be

more concerned in the well being

of the wildlife and not merely looking at making profit. Should any

clarification be needed further on this matter, please do not hesitate to

contact Perhilitan at pakp.

 

 

 

*Yamuna Perimalu

Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment*