MELAKA: Melaka Zoo has been turned into a special “ex-situ” conservation site for Malayan Tiger by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan).

       Perhilitan director-general Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim said the matter involving the Malayan Tiger is crucial in view that the estimated population of the species is fewer than 200.

       “The population of the Malayan Tiger would go extinct within 10 years if no drastic action is taken," he said after representing Perhilitan in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Melaka Zoo at a hotel here on Friday (Jan 7).

       Melaka Zoo was represented by Hang Tuah Jaya Municipal Council (MPHTJ) president Datuk Shadan Othman during the signing ceremony.

       Abdul Kadir noted that there are 60 more kept captive in menageries, apart from the estimated 200 of the species in the wild.

       He said the Perhilitan will continue strengthening its efforts in ensuring the survival of the species through preservation and conservation.

       Abdul Kadir said under the ex-situ breeding, the tiger cubs would be released into the wild once they are able to fend for themselves.

       He added that the population of species in the wild has also dwindled due to the act of placing tiger traps and snares by poachers.