January-February . 2025 | @ green

• CONSERVATION 07

Pahang and the United Arab Emirates have signed an agreement to establish a strategic collaboration to protect the critically endangered Malayan tigers . – PICTURE VIA FACEBOOK / TENGKU HASSANAL SHAH

Pahang and UAE sign RM99.8m agreement to protect critically endangered Malayan tigers

groundbreaking partnership has emerged between a group from Pahang , Malaysia , and the United Arab Emirates ( UAE ), united by a shared mission to conserve the endangered Malayan tiger and safeguard its natural habitat .

This crucial initiative is backed by a remarkable RM99.8 million grant from the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund ( MBZIF ), highlighting a powerful commitment to the preservation

tive effort include the creation of anti-poaching patrols dedicated to safeguarding both tigers and their prey species , alongside breeding programmes designed to ensure a sustainable food source .

Innovative tools such as genetic studies will further enrich our understanding of tiger health and genetics , while in situ research facilities will pave the way for groundbreaking scientific exploration .

These concerted efforts aim to of our planet ’ s wildlife .

Enggang Management Services and MBZIF will jointly lead the implementation of this vital conservation initiative at the Al-Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve . Through the establishment of a grant steering committee , this partnership will boldly confront the urgent threats facing the Malayan tiger , including poaching , habitat destruction , and the decline of tiger populations .

Key actions in this transformasecure not only sustainable food sources but also a promising future for the Malayan tiger . These species now count fewer than 150 individuals in the wild . This partnership ’ s resolve shines as a beacon of hope , reinforcing the critical need for collaborative conservation efforts .

The partnership was proudly announced during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week , a significant milestone that underscores Malaysia ’ s dedication to its natural heritage and the preservation of its forests and wildlife .

OYEN & RIMAO

Tengku Hassanal Shah , the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang , expressed immense gratitude for this collaboration , emphasising the importance of international unity in addressing global conservation challenges .

“ This partnership with the UAE empowers us to be ambitious in our quest to protect the Malayan tiger and other endangered species ,” he stated .

“ It exemplifies the strength of bilateral cooperation in achieving meaningful outcomes for wildlife and ecosystems .”

Tengku Hassanal has passionately championed the cause of the Malayan tiger , demonstrating the impact of dedicated advocacy in conservation .

In a creative effort to engage the younger generation and the wider community in this noble cause , Tengku Hassanal launched a dual-language comic book , “ Oyen & Rimao ,” under his Save The Malayan Tiger initiative . This inspiring project serves to educate and inspire all to embrace the message of conservation .

Razan Al Mubarak , managing director of MBZIF , articulated the initiative ’ s broader significance , describing it as both a moral duty and “ an investment in our planet ’ s future ”.

Razan affirmed : “ This initiative will empower the Malayan tiger to thrive while also benefiting local communities and stabilising vital ecosystems .”

The emphasis on community involvement highlights the profound understanding that conservation is most impactful when local stakeholders are energised and rewarded for their roles .

CRITICAL HABITAT

The Al-Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve , adjacent to Taman Negara National Park in Pahang , spans an impressive 1,340 square kilometres , providing a critical habitat for the Malayan tiger .

This biodiverse reserve plays an essential role in the ecosystem , with its conservation efforts also contributing to the battle against climate change by protecting rainforests that store millions of tonnes of carbon .

In this journey , local and indigenous communities will stand at the forefront of conservation , acting as guardians of the environment and benefitting from sustainable jobs and tourism opportunities .

By fostering ownership and responsibility , these communities will emerge as vital allies in the fight to save the Malayan tiger and its habitat , ensuring a harmonious future for both the species and the ecosystem .

This partnership serves as an inspiring model of how international cooperation can lead to profound and impactful conservation outcomes , galvanising support for one of the world ’ s most endangered species and championing the health of its natural habitat .

Together , we can make a difference and create a brighter future for wildlife and our planet . – @ green