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Protected wildlife and orchids seizedby Tan Chin Siang The Security and Asset Protection Unit (Sapu) of the Sarawak Forestry Corporation seized 40 live animals and 46 clusters of orchids which are protected under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998 last weekend. Sapu's general manager Sani Bakar said in a statement today that the live animals seized included longtail macaques, a mousedeer, otter, eagle and pheasants. The seizures were made by Sapu's undercover officers and patrol teams which had been actively conducting enforcement activities throughout the State. "Wildlife's enormous importance includes its aesthetic and cultural value to the diverse population of Sarawak. "They form an invaluable part of the State's tourism industry, and in maintaining the health of the State's forests," he said. Sani added that since coming into operation in June this year, Sapu had been effective in stamping out illegal activities such as poaching of totally protected or protected animal and plant species, encroachment into protected sites, and illegal logging activities. "Given the threat posed by the illegal timber and wildlife trade to the sustainability of endangered species and their habitat, Sapu plans to increase enforcement activities throughout the State," he said. To achieve greater success, Sani said the public could help by supplying information. Sapu can be reached at 019-889 7222, 082-348 001 ext 606, or 082-302 606. Sarawak Forestry's toll free line is 1-800-88-2526. |
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24 September 2003
MTC’s
