More manpower to stop killing

The number of enforcement officers and rangers to help stop the killing of wild elephants would be increased.

KOTA KINABALU: The number of enforcement officers and rangers to help stop the killing of wild elephants would be increased.

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Christina Liew said that such personnel can keep their eyes on the elephants.

She also said that they are looking at engaging with a consultant for the protection of the elephants.

Similarly, the ministry also plans to re-introduce rewards for witnesses in the killing of the elephants so that they will come forward.

Liew disclosed the measures after Chief Minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal ordered her to fasttrack all necessary efforts to protect wildlife in Sabah.

Spurred by the yet-to-be established Borneon elephant deaths in the state early April and May 20, Shafie has also ordered the Sabah Wildlife Department to conduct a thorough probe and take the necessary appropriate action to stop further unnecessary endangerment on the state’s wildlife.

“I do not want lip service. I want to see short and long-term conservation plans drawn up to be implemented on a fast track basis,” said Shafie in a May 21 statement.

“Here, I want to see that Sabah Wildlife Department and Sabah Forestry Department work closely together towards protecting the wildlife and forests.”