Sean Augustin New Straits Times 28 Oct 10;
KUALA LUMPUR: Rampant smuggling of insects and arachnids has been taking place in Fraser's Hill, the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) revealed.
Its head of communications, Andrew Sebastian, said he was concerned as the activity had been going on for a long time, with poachers -- a majority of whom are locals -- setting up traps along the eight trails in the hill resort.
Having seized about four insect traps himself a month ago, Sebastian said the devices would snare and kill insects which are protected under the National Forestry Act 1984.
Fraser's Hill is both a wildlife sanctuary and permanent forest reserve.
Some of the victims of these devices include the tarantula and trapdoor spider.
Should poaching go unchecked, Sebastian warned it would threaten the local bio-diversity which could contain species endemic to the area.
"Smuggling will a create a lose-lose situation for conservation and public awareness, as well as compromise research," he told the New Straits Times.
Sebastian said the poaching might be attributed to the lack of enforcement as well as visible warning signs in the area.
He suggested that the holiday resorts educate their guest about preserving the environment.
"It is not open season and take anything you wish."
While most would have a low regard for insects compared to other endangered species, Sebastian said insects were just as important as tigers and turtles.
Bird watcher Ooi Chin Hock said he had noticed a drop in the number of tarantulas and trapdoor spiders.
"It was quite obvious to see them on the banks of roads. Now, it is very difficult," he said.
Special officer to the Tourism Ministry S. K Durai, who is based at Fraser's Hill, said while there were still instances of people smuggling insects, the situation was now under control.
He said three years ago, tourists could be seen walking out of the sanctuary with boxes of insects.
Demand for insects, especially beetles is very high among the Japanese, who are said to have a great affection for insects and are enthusiastic insect catchers, especially beetles which are sometimes kept as pets.
Most of the larger beetles sold in Japan are said to originate from Malaysia, Cambodia, Nepal, Indonesia and India.
