Baku:First paragraph begins Urgent and coordinated action is required to halt the decline of the critically endangered Malayan tiger and prevent its extinction, according to Persatuan Pelindung Harimau Malaysia (RIMAU) president Lara Ariffin. The wild population of this apex predator has fallen below 150, based on the National Tiger Survey conducted between 2016 and 2020.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lara Ariffin emphasized the perilous state of the Malayan tiger during an interview at the Global Tipping Points Conference 2026. She highlighted that the nation cannot afford the loss of this species, pointing to the extinction of the Sumatran rhino as a cautionary precedent.

Lara identified habitat loss and fragmentation as significant threats, noting Peninsular Malaysia's forest cover is down to 43 percent. Additionally, African swine fever outbreaks have reduced the wild boar population, a key prey for tigers.

The government has increased funding for conservation efforts, including support for 2,500 community rangers. However, Lara cautioned that critical forest areas, such as those in Perak, are still only at 60 percent of the required ranger capacity. She stressed the need for collaborative efforts from governments, NGOs, the public, and the private sector to save the Malayan tiger.

She also urged plantation developers and private entities to cease further forest clearing and restore ecological corridors to combat habitat fragmentation. To raise awareness, RIMAU has launched "Laya Liar," a 72-episode digital series available on YouTube and Facebook, aimed at educating the public and engaging younger generations in conservation efforts.

Lara Ariffin concluded by encouraging everyone to play a role in ensuring the Malayan tiger does not become a mere memory for future generations.