MIRI, July 2: A long-tailed macaque which was trapped in a sauna here was rescued by Civil Defence Force (APM) Miri yesterday.
Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) chief executive officer (CEO) and Controller of Wild Life Zolkipli Mohamad Aton, in a statement today, revealed that the monkey was surrendered to SFC to be released back into the wild where it belonged.
“The long-tailed macaque’s habitats have been fragmented by human habitation and that is the reason why they are around these places.
“I have instructed my staff to release the macaque in the wild where it belongs and I believe it will soon be able to roam freely in an area of Lambir Hills National Park,” he added.
Meanwhile, Zolkipli extended his gratitude to APM Miri for their assistance in rescuing the macaque.
“SFC will continue to work together with other agencies to carry out operations to rescue wildlife and combat illegal wildlife trade,” he emphasised.
The long-tailed macaque is a protected species under the Wild Life Protection Ordinance 1998.
Anyone in possession of any protected animals without a licence issued by the Controller is liable to imprisonment of one year and a fine of RM10,000.
Members of the public with information on similar cases are encouraged to report through Sarawak Forestry hotlines at Kuching (019-8859996, 013-8110150), Sibu (019-8883561), Bintulu (019-8223449, 019-8332737), or Miri (019-8224566, 019-8290994). — DayakDaily
