PETALING JAYA: Perpetrators of wildlife crimes will now face tougher punishment after the wildlife and national parks department (Perhilitan) announced that an amendment to the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 will be enforced from today.
Perhilitan said those convicted of importing and exporting fully protected species without a valid permit face a fine of up to RM1 million and a jail term of not more than 15 years.
The previous maximum sentences were a fine of up to RM500,000 and a jail term of up to 10 years.
“Increasing the penalties for wildlife smuggling is necessary as it is a serious crime that endangers wildlife, which are an invaluable national treasure.
“(It) will send a clear message to deter smugglers and ensure that wildlife continues to exist for generations to come,” it said in a statement.
Perhilitan said it would continue its Biodiversity Protection and Patrolling Programme (BP3) enforcement operation throughout Peninsular Malaysia, with help from the police, the customs department, the Peninsular Malaysia forestry department as well as other government agencies and NGOs.
The department expressed hope that the Wildlife Crime Bureau, set up last year under the police, could also assist in enforcing the amendment to the Act.
It also urged the public to assist by providing any information related to wildlife crimes to Perhilitan. Information may be sent by calling Perhilitan’s hotline at 1800885151 or via its website, www.wildlife.gov.my. - FMT
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