Tapir Fatalities in Terengganu Highlight Increasing Human-Wildlife Conflict
Dungun, Terengganu – Two seperate incidents in Terengganu within a two-week period have resulted in the deaths of tapirs due to vehicle collisions, raising concerns about escalating human-wildlife conflict in the region. These tragic events underscore the vulnerability of these endangered mammals and the urgent need for enhanced conservation efforts and road safety measures.
The most recent incident occurred on February 1st, 2026, near Kampung Santong, Dungun, were a male tapir weighing approximately 300 kilograms was struck by a car at Kilometre 8 of Jalan Bandar Al-Mukhtafi Billah Shah-Paka at approximately 10:00 PM. According to a statement released by the Terengganu Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan),the animal sustained severe injuries to its head and body. Perhilitan personnel subsequently removed the carcass for proper disposal. Preliminary reports indicate the vehicle involved was a Volkswagen driven by a 49-year-old teacher.
Just two weeks prior, on January 24th, 2026, another tapir, weighing around 200 kilograms, was fatally struck by a motorcycle on the East Coast Highway 2 (LPT2) near Kerteh, Kemaman. This collision tragically resulted in the death of the 19-year-old motorcyclist as well.
These incidents are not isolated occurrences. Tapirs,known for their nocturnal habits and tendency to cross roads in search of food and mates,are increasingly vulnerable to traffic collisions as their habitat becomes fragmented due to deforestation and advancement. The Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus) is currently listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List, with a declining population estimated at less than 2,500 mature individuals.Habitat loss and fragmentation, coupled with poaching and road mortality, are the primary threats to their survival.
Loo Kean Seong, Director of Perhilitan Terengganu, emphasized the department’s commitment to mitigating human-wildlife conflict. “We are actively working to identify hotspots for wildlife crossings and implement measures to reduce the risk of collisions,” he stated. These measures include increased public awareness campaigns, the installation of wildlife warning signs, and collaboration with local authorities to improve road infrastructure.
Conservation groups are advocating for the creation of wildlife corridors – designated areas of habitat that connect fragmented forests, allowing animals to move safely between populations. They also urge drivers to exercise caution, notably at night, and to adhere to speed limits in areas known to be wildlife habitats.
The recent fatalities serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between human development and wildlife conservation. Continued collaboration between government agencies, conservation organizations, and the public is crucial to ensuring the long-term survival of the Malayan tapir and other endangered species in Terengganu and throughout Malaysia.
Keywords: Tapir, Terengganu, Wildlife, Human-Wildlife Conflict, Endangered Species, Road Mortality, Perhilitan, Malayan Tapir, Conservation, Wildlife Corridor, LPT2, Dungun, Kerteh.