More needs to be done for marine life conservation

Straits Times Forum 19 May 09;

THE good news that Resorts World at Sentosa is scrapping its plan to exhibit whale sharks ('No whale sharks at Sentosa IR', last Saturday) has given me tremendous relief. Knowing that such a beautiful wild creature can be spared from a lifetime of imprisonment is a triumphant moment for any animal lover.

This success could not have been achieved if not for the hard work of some animal welfare organisations. The online petition against the whale shark plan not only raised awareness among Singaporeans, but also made Resorts World realise that many Singaporeans are concerned about the treatment and welfare of animals. After all, how could anyone ignore the voices of 9,000 people?

However, it is worrying that Resorts World is proposing an alternative, which means other marine wildlife will live in captivity. This is on top of the possible 700,000 marine creatures included in the earlier plans.

Ms Krist Boo from Resorts World said the change in plans was governed by 'conservation of this (whale shark) species', and that the replacement would be 'conservation-focused'. This is contradictory. It is senseless to link conservation with wildlife in captivity, since conservation refers to protecting species, their habitats and ecosystems from extinction. Taking marine wildlife from its natural habitat will only escalate its extinction rate and encourage exploitation of wildlife for profit.

Marine Life Park will bring visitors to Singapore, which is one reason why Singapore decided to have the integrated resorts. The park should also educate the public on marine conservation. But to develop the economy on the pain and suffering of animals is inhumane and cruel.

As Mr Grant Pereira from Sea Shepherd Conservation Society said at the Singapore Animal Welfare Symposium last Saturday: 'A person could learn more about whale sharks in an hour spent at the Omni-Theatre than spending 10 days in a casino.'

Well said, Mr Pereira.

Ong Lu Lus (Ms)