Straits Times Forum 1 Mar 10;
THE Straits Times recently reported the findings of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature on the status of the world's primates ('25 primates 'close to extinction' ', Feb 19).
While nearly half of the world's 400 primate species are threatened, Asia's primates are in the worst shape with 71 per cent under threat. Moreover, of the 25 most critically endangered primates, their highest concentration is in South-east Asia, which makes primate conservation a critical issue for the region.
Singapore has no endemic primate species, but we share with Johor a distinct variant (or 'sub-species') of the banded leaf monkey. Unfortunately, the Singapore population is severely threatened, with only 40 or 50 such monkeys remaining. Their future depends on us.
Even the widespread long-tailed macaque, which can be viewed with relative ease here, does not necessarily have a secure future. Throughout its range in South-east Asia, the number of such monkeys is rapidly declining because of conflict with humans or because they are trapped and traded. Many people live near long-tailed macaques, as in Singapore, and the future of these human-macaque communities will depend on our tolerance of them.
South-east Asia is one of nature's premier laboratories for the generation of biodiversity. Tragically, this unparalleled biodiversity, of which primates are a prime indicator, is imperilled by many factors, most of which are related to our patterns of consumption - of wood, paper and cooking oil, to name a few.
Singapore, despite its limited size and population, can punch well above its weight in saving endangered species. As a centre of innovation, we can find ways to use and manage natural resources more effectively. Our wealth, if wisely invested, can help protect or even improve the environment. If other cities become as conscious of limiting environmental impacts as we are, pressure on nature would greatly ease. Moreover, we can support forms of trade and tourism that preserve habitats and local cultures.
Anyone lucky enough to spend time observing wild primates will be amazed by their intelligence, resourcefulness, and the complexity of their behaviour and social structure. Our actions will result in us either pushing more primates towards the abyss, or in saving them from oblivion. If we choose the latter, we will simultaneously restore ecosystems to a state in which humans will benefit from improved ecological services (clean air, water and local climatic stability) that these habitats provide. It can be a win-win for all primates.
Tan Beng Chiak (President)
Michael Gumert (Board Member)
Shawn Lum (Board Member)
Jane Goodall Institute, Singapore Chapter
