Malaysia Info Guide
for Locals & Visitors

JOHOR BARU: Local researchers have managed to capture ground images of the spotted leopard, the first official documentation of the animal in the country.

The images were captured using a state-of-the-art camera trap, specially designed to work under extremely humid conditions.

Wildlife Conservation Society Malaysia programme director Dr Melvin T. Gumal said the images confirmed the existence of spotted leopards in the country.

“Previously, we have only heard of sightings of these animals but now, we have documented proof they exist,” he told reporters at the Taman Negara Johor Biodiversity and Conservation Symposium held here yesterday.

He said the existence of spotted leopards in Malaysia had been a subject of huge debate, with many researchers arguing that the country only had black leopards.

Dr Melvin added that this was because only pictures of black leopards had been captured in local jungles so far.

“With this camera, we are also confident that we will be able to document other animal species which have not been previously recorded,” he said, adding that about 70 cameras had been installed in various areas in Taman Negara.

State International Trade, Industry, Energy, Water, Com­munication and Environment Committee chairman Tan Kok Hong said the research findings would eventually be forwarded to the Johor government.

“Through these findings, we will be able to gauge the condition of our biological system and help us find solutions to enhance our natural forests,” he said.

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