OCT 18 — The P4PHM is an association formed in 2011 to represent Malaysian wildlife industry stakeholders including but not limited to zoological park operators, breeders, wildlife traders and hobbyists. We write with regard to recent allegations that one of our member organizations mistreated animals in its custody.

First and foremost, the P4PHM does not condone the abuse of animals by any of its member organizations. However, before any sanction is meted out against member organizations, the association would first engage, offer assistance and/or guidance to all member organizations towards compliance.

In this respect, we would like to applaud PERHILITAN on its handling of the issue by way of an independent investigation team, whose report has been published on PERHILITAN’s (www.wildlife.gov.my) website. We hope that this comprehensive report will satisfy the concerns of well-meaning NGOs.

As an Association that has been formed on the back disagreements over how the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716) has been enforced, we can testify that PERHILITAN has audited our member organizations without favour and some may even say “with vengeance.” Therefore, we have no doubt that the report has been objective and impartial.

The WCA 2010 (Act 716) was formulated with animal welfare interest at heart but, as it is a nonretrospective law, we request that members of the public allow reasonable time for member organizations to comply with contemporary regulations. Furthermore, none of our member organizations have sought public funds nor donations to upgrade facilities, some of which were built more than 25 years ago. It is arguably more difficult to upgrade facilities than it is to build a new one altogether as there are additional logistics involved such as temporary housing of animals, for instance.

Nevertheless, we urge anyone, whether members of the public or NGOs, to forward any concerns that they may have to us or to relevant authorities directly (both PERHILITAN and NRE have their respective Helpdesks). Sometimes, member organizations fall behind and can be grateful when presented issues from different point of view; yet sometimes a visitors’ snapshot impression can also be taken out of context altogether.

Nevertheless, we do agree that there will always be room for improvement and that all our member organizations will strive towards this goal in their own time.

The P4PHM has advanced its objectives well over the last year but mostly through positive engagement with PERHILITAN and especially the Natural Resources & Environment Ministry. On the back of this progress, we recommend all to apply the same approach of “positive engagement” in highlighting and/or addressing their concerns.

Any complaint on any wildlife industry stakeholder can be submitted to [email protected]. All issues will dealt with open objectivity and dialogue with the respective stakeholder, especially if it involves a member organization.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malay Mail Online.