Narrative of Human-Wildlife Coexistence is a Misconception

The Grim Reality of Habitat Destruction

From Tajuddin Abdullah

I write to express deep concern about the ongoing destruction of Malaysia’s tropical rainforests, particularly under the guise of industrial plantation development and the idealised narrative of coexistence between wildlife and human activities. This misconception, often romanticised by industry-sponsored studies and stakeholders, misrepresents the grim realities observed in the field.

The Discrepancies Between Portrayal and Ecological Truths

The concept of “living in harmony” with wildlife, while continuing to dismantle their prime habitats, is fraught with ecological and ethical contradictions. Aldo Leopold, in A Sand County Almanac (1949), articulated a “land ethic” that demands a respectful and sustainable relationship with the natural world. His principles highlight the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the far-reaching impacts of human actions.

The Large-Scale Conversion of Rainforests

Similarly, pioneering Malaysian biologists such as the late Lim Boo Liat and many others demonstrated through meticulous observations the delicate balance of our Malaysian rainforests, warning of the devastating consequences of habitat disruption. The large-scale conversion of diverse rainforests into monoculture plantations in Malaysia deliberately contradicts these principles, eroding biodiversity and destabilising both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

Industry-Sponsored Research and the Whitewash

Much of the so-called evidence supporting plantation expansion arises from industry-sponsored research disconnected from field realities. Such studies, often driven by the interests of tycoon businessmen and politically connected figures, prioritise short-term profits over the irreplaceable value of our natural heritage. By ignoring the complexity of on-the-ground ecological interactions, these reports promote flawed narratives that encourage unsustainable practices.

The Consequences of Habitat Destruction

Expecting displaced wildlife to adapt peacefully to drastically altered environments is naive and dangerous. As habitats shrink and resources dwindle, wildlife is forced into desperate measures, resulting in negative impacts such as:

• Human-wildlife conflict: Wildlife encroaches on human settlements for food and shelter, leading to increased confrontations that often end tragically for both humans and animals;
• Disease transmission: Fragmented habitats and stress heighten the risk of zoonotic diseases spilling over into human populations; and
• Ecosystem disruption: The loss of key species has a cascading effect, compromising the stability of entire ecosystems.

The Need for Genuine Ecological Studies

The idea that industrial plantations and biodiversity conservation can coexist harmoniously is a dangerous misconception. Ecological principles, ethics, and animal behaviour all indicate that displaced and oppressed wildlife cannot simply “live in harmony” with their oppressors. Instead, they may “retaliate”, disrupting human activities and highlighting the unsustainability of such coexistence.

A Call to Action

The Malaysian government and private sector need to prioritise genuine, field-based ecological studies over industry-biased research. Policies informed by authentic, science-backed insights should guide sustainable development, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and the well-being of Orang Asli and Orang Asal communities who depend on these forest resources for their subsistence and livelihoods.

Conclusion

Leopold’s assertion that humans are part of a broader ecological community is a lesson we ignore at our peril. Destroying rainforests for industrial gain not only endangers wildlife but also compromises the natural systems on which human survival depends. We have already lost iconic species such as the Javan and Sumatran rhinos, while others like the Malayan tiger, orangutan, canopy primates, and temoleh fish teeter on the brink of localised extinction by 2030.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main concern about the narrative of human-wildlife coexistence?
A: The main concern is that it is a misconception that ignores the grim realities of habitat destruction and the devastating consequences of human actions on ecosystems.

Q: What are the consequences of habitat destruction?
A: The consequences include human-wildlife conflict, disease transmission, and ecosystem disruption, which can have far-reaching impacts on both human and wildlife populations.

Q: What is the need for genuine ecological studies?
A: Genuine ecological studies are needed to inform sustainable development policies and ensure the preservation of biodiversity and the well-being of indigenous communities who depend on these forest resources.

Q: What is the call to action?
A: The call to action is for the Malaysian government and private sector to prioritise genuine, field-based ecological studies over industry-biased research and to adopt policies informed by authentic, science-backed insights to guide sustainable development.