Human-Wildlife Conflict: Malaysia’s Efforts to Support Victims
The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES) through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) has been actively working to support victims of human-wildlife conflict. As of October this year, the ministry has channelled RM608,000 in aid to 107 victims of human-wildlife conflict.
Property and Crop Damage Compensation (BKHT) Initiative
The aid was distributed through the Property and Crop Damage Compensation (BKHT) initiative, which was introduced on March 29. Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii explained that BKHT is a one-off financial assistance given to the target group who suffer losses or damage to property and crops due to wild animals, subject to the set conditions.
Support for Wildlife Attack Victims
In addition to the BKHT initiative, the Social Welfare Department also extends support through the Wildlife Attack Victims Assistance Trust Fund. This fund provides aid to those injured or who have lost family members due to wildlife attacks. Huang emphasized the importance of providing support to these victims, saying, "We understand that human-wildlife conflict can have a significant impact on individuals and families, and it is our responsibility to provide assistance to those affected."
Precautionary Measures
Huang also advised the public on precautionary measures to take when faced with a threatening situation involving wild animals. He emphasized the importance of not panicking and not attempting to confront the animal. Instead, individuals should try to stay calm, move away slowly from the animal, and take shelter indoors or in a secure location. He also encouraged individuals to contact the nearest Perhilitan office or the hotline at 1800-88-515 or the police emergency hotline to report wildlife conflict incidents for further action.
Conclusion
The Malaysian government’s efforts to support victims of human-wildlife conflict are commendable. The RM608,000 in aid provided to 107 victims as of October this year is a significant step in addressing the impact of human-wildlife conflict on individuals and families. The BKHT initiative and the Wildlife Attack Victims Assistance Trust Fund are important measures in providing financial assistance to those affected. By providing support and guidance on precautionary measures, the government can help reduce the risk of human-wildlife conflict and minimize its impact on communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Property and Crop Damage Compensation (BKHT) initiative?
- BKHT is a one-off financial assistance given to the target group who suffer losses or damage to property and crops due to wild animals, subject to the set conditions.
- How does the Social Welfare Department support wildlife attack victims?
- The Social Welfare Department provides aid to those injured or who have lost family members due to wildlife attacks through the Wildlife Attack Victims Assistance Trust Fund.
- What should I do if I encounter a threatening situation involving a wild animal?
- Try not to panic, move away slowly from the animal, and take shelter indoors or in a secure location while waiting for authorities. Immediately contact the nearest Perhilitan office or the hotline at 1800-88-515 or the police emergency hotline to report wildlife conflict incidents for further action.