20 @ greenXtra | November-December . 2024

The reserve ’ s management model is designed to attract and blend conservation goals with financial sustainability

As an advocate for the majestic Malayan tiger , Pahang Crown Prince Tengku Hassanal Shah outlined the critical need for such initiatives in the face of the species ’ alarming decline due to poaching and habitat loss .

“ At the reserve , we are implementing worldclass standards for habitat management and prey enrichment , essential for the Malayan tiger ’ s repopulation . Establishing this reserve also signifies our dedication to international collaboration in conservation efforts ,” said Tengku Hassanal .

“ We are adopting global accreditation standards , such as the Conservation Assured Tiger Standards ( or CATS ) and the IUCN standards for protected and conserved areas , to ensure that our practices meet the highest international benchmarks .”

EMPHASISING COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP

The Al-Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve embodies a collaborative partnership approach , recognising that the complex endeavour of repopulating and ensuring the survival of the Malayan tiger requires collective efforts from government agencies , NGOs , private entities , and international partners .

“ No single organisation can shoulder this responsibility alone . It is a multifaceted approach encompassing habitat

THE Tiger Reserve is rich with an extensive array of animal species ; several of which are listed as vulnerable , endangered and critically endangered . The habitat supports six of the seven wild cat species found in Malaysia – the Malayan tiger , Melanistic leopard , Clouded leopard , Marbled cat , Golden cat and Leopard cat – as well as endangered species such as the Asian elephant , Malayan tapir , Asian dhole , White-handed gibbon , Pig-tailed macaque and Dusky leaf monkey .

The habitat is also home to management , anti-poaching efforts , research , and community engagement .

“ Our vision for the reserve includes not just the protection of the Malayan tiger but also developing facilities for rewilding , captive breeding , and translocation efforts . These initiatives are aligned with the national tiger recovery plan , underscoring our holistic approach to conservation ,” Tengku Hassanal elaborated .

GLOBAL SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT

He invited everyone to join in this critical mission , emphasising the potential for research partnerships and the need for

over 380 bird species , including two critically endangered species – the Helmeted hornbill , and the Crestless fireback , as well as vulnerable and endangered species such as the Buff-rumped woodpecker , Argus pheasant , Large green pigeon and Crested partridge .

CATCHMENT PROTECTION

The Tiger Reserve is known for its distinctive quartz ridge formations , with many hills that are to be discovered and expected to harbour endemic financial sustainability . Innovative mechanisms , including Public- Private Partnerships , are being explored to ensure the long-term viability of conservation efforts .

“ The reserve ’ s management model is designed to attract and facilitate these partnerships , blending conservation goals with financial sustainability . We recognise that the Malayan tiger is a treasure belonging to Malaysia and the world . Its survival is a responsibility we all share .

“ The Malayan tiger is a symbol of our natural heritage , and its extinction would be an irreplaceable loss to global biodiversity . The task before us is monumental , but our resolve is steadfast . Establishing the Al-Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve is a significant step , but it is just the beginning .

“ We need global support , expertise , and commitment to turn the tide for the Malayan Tiger . Let us come together , pooling our resources and knowledge , to ensure that the roar of the Malayan Tiger continues to echo through the jungles of Malaysia . Let us work hand in hand to protect this magnificent species and preserve it for generations to come .”

flora and fauna .

The Tembeling River is a major tributary of the Pahang River . It is of enormous significance to the indigenous peoples and local communities for transportation , food resources , and source of income from nature tourism .

The Tiger Reserve protects the primary water catchment of the Tembeling River and is classified as essential for soil and water protection from the risk of erosions and landslides , as well as for preserving water quality and supply . – @ greenXtra