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Achieving good welfare of Malayan sun bears (Helarctos malayanus) in captivity through understanding behavioral aspects is crucial in providing improved captive management for conservation purposes. The Malayan sun bear is the smallest bear species and remains the least studied member of the Ursid family. We investigated the behavior patterns of 11 captive sun bears (four cubs, four sub-adults, and three adults) at different time periods (morning, afternoon, and evening). Different behavior pattern were observed between individual bears, and a strong interaction between age grouped and type of behavior were also noticed. We also found that all bear age groups exhibited higher normal behavior than stereotypic behavior. Oral stereotypies were mainly exhibited by cubs, and their locomotor stereotypies were slightly higher in frequency compared to sub-adult and adult individuals. Anticipatory behavior toward keepers during husbandry activities and their potential conflict background may represent a major factor leading to these highly stereotypic behaviors, particularly in cubs and during morning sessions. We suggest that stereotypy can be minimized by providing food or creative tool enrichments to divert the attention of bears from keepers. Minimal stereotypic behavior is crucial in the captive management and conservation of Malayan sun bear, particularly when selecting individual bear to release back to wild habitat.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease and a worldwide public health problem that affects mainly high-risk groups. Characterizing knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among high-risk groups is important to develop appropriate prevention programs. Here, we performed a cross-sectional study among 300 visitors of a recreational forest in Malaysia to examine leptospirosis KAP and demographics. These variables were integrated to create knowledge and practice scores for each respondent. All respondents had heard about leptospirosis, and 87% of them correctly identified it as a disease. The majority of respondents had high knowledge (63%), positive attitude, and good practice (68%) toward prevention of the disease. However, there were gaps in knowledge, with 78% of the respondents indicating eating without washing hands as the major cause of leptospirosis transmission. Our final model identified that higher knowledge score was associated with higher practice score. Our results indicate that it is important to increase knowledge, especially on transmission routes of leptospirosis, among visitors in recreational areas. Moreover, more attention needs to be paid to promote good practice habits among visitors, targeting those at higher risk of being infected by leptospirosis to prevent potential outbreaks in the recreational areas.

Taxonomic confusion among island flying foxes (Pteropus hypomelanus) still in debate as in the lack of further genetic studies that describe subspecies validity needs verification. On the basis of morphological variants, 17 subspecies of P. hypomelanus are currently recognized. A previous study showed the distribution of two subspecies of P. hypomelanus in Malaysia: P. hypomelanus robinsoni in Pangkor Island, west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and P. hypomelanus lepidus from Perhentian Island, Kapas Island, and Tioman Island, east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Herein, using the displacement loop (D-loop) region of mitochondrial DNA sequences, phylogenetic and haplotype network was conducted on their population structure in Peninsular Malaysia upon 42 genetic samples from Dangli Island (Langkawi), Pangkor Island (Perak), Redang Island (Terengganu), and Tinggi Island (Johor). Phylogenetically, two main clades separating northwest and southeast populations emerged. No haplotype was shared between the populations. The results from genetic differentiation (estimate of population subdivision (FST) and nucleotide subdivision (Nst)) yielded a gene flow that was nearly cut-off because of the central mountain that forms as an effective barrier between islands of the east and west coasts of Peninsular Malaysia. Although the above finding genetically confirms their subspecies designation, examination using a nuclear marker is needed in future studies.

The drastic changes in hydroelectric reservoir development created a completely new ecosystem that affects the river, particularly in the inundated area. In this study, five Neolissochilus soroides and Channa lucius were surgically implanted with a unique coded acoustic transmitter to observe the habitat utilisation and movement activity in Tembat Reservoir after the inundation process. All of the individuals were released into the transition zone of the reservoir and observed using passive and active acoustic tracking devices from April to December 2018. Kruskal-Walis test showed no significant difference between the average size of core area for N. soroides and C. lucius, x2(1) = 1.320, p = 0.251. The home range also showed a similar result for N. soroides and C. lucius where there was an insignificant difference, x2(1) = 0.273, p = 0.602. However, duration wise, N. soroides spend more time in the transition zone, R1 (M = 2.71 hrs, SE = 0.38), and C. lucius in the riverine zone, R5 (M = 7.14 hrs, SE = 6.13) and R6 (M = 3.85 hours, SE = 6.36). From the active tracking survey, PCA identified three (62.32%) and four (71.19%) components with eigenvalues greater than 1 for N. soroides and C. lucius, respectively. Three most important habitat parameters for N. soroides were the size of river (r = 0.97), existence of canopy cover (r = 0.77), and substrate type (r = 0.79).While, for C. lucius were mesohabitat type (r = 0.79), distance to riffle (r = 0.97), existence of canopy cover (r = 0.90), and elevation (r = 0.90). A 24-hour movement frequency analysis for both species revealed two active hours of movement at dusk and dawn for both species. From the study, it is known that N. soroides and C. lucius respond differently towards the inundation of the reservoir. The findings in this study can be implemented for effective aquatic management and conservation plan to ensure sustainable dam development.

The Felda Aring - Tasik Kenyir Road was identified as one of the most threatening roads to wildlife in Malaysia. The present study was conducted to assess the road crossing activities involving the medium- to large-mammal species due to the problem stated. The objectives of this study were to (1) predict the suitability of the road and its surroundings as the roaming areas for the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus, n = 104) and Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus, n = 66), (2) identify the mammalian species inhabiting the forest beside the road, (3) compare the forest’s common species [photographic capture rate index (PCRI) > 10/ detection probability (P) ≥ 0.05] with the ones utilising the road crossing structures; the viaducts and the bridges, and (4) determine the most impacted species from traffic collisions. The road and its surroundings were classified as moderately suitable to the elephant and tapir (suitability values = 0.4 - 0.8). A total of 16 mammal species were recorded at the forest edges, in which the wild pig (Sus scrofa) (PCRI = 118.96, P = 0.3719 ± 0.027), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) (PCRI = 68.89, P = 0.2219 ± 0.0232), sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) (PCRI = 11.13, P = 0.0507 ± 0.0159), tapir (PCRI = 11.13, P = 0.0469 ± 0.0118), elephant (PCRI = 10.7, P = 0.0787 ± 0.0195) and Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) (PCRI = 10.7, P = 0.103 ± 0.0252) were the common species utilising the crossing structures. In contrast, the Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) were the most frequently hit species on the road [F(7,398) = 28.53, p < 0.0005]. The present study found that large-mammal species were utilising the crossing structures at a higher frequency, whereas more medium-mammal species were involved in traffic collisions.

Natural mineral licks are used by many species throughout the world but information relating to the use of artificial saltlicks for wildlife conservation and management is scant. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks in Peninsular Malaysia has established more than 30 artificial saltlicks intended to enrich the habitat with additional mineral resources for wildlife. We used automated camera traps to assess mammal diversity and visitation rates at 14 artificial saltlicks across three wildlife reserves, and compared these metrics to those from nearby (300 m) forest sites. Cameras were operational for an average of 65.3 trap nights (TN), providing 846 TN at artificial saltlicks and 916 TN in forest areas. At artificial saltlicks we recorded 159.7 independent mammal encounters (100 TN–1), significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than from forest sites at 31.1 100 TN–1. Twenty-three species were recorded at artificial saltlicks while 19 species were detected from forest sites. Of the seven most frequent species to visit the artificial saltlicks, only wild pig (p = 0.012), Malayan tapir (p = 0.033), red muntjac (p = 0.008), and Malayan porcupine (p = 0.007) showed significantly higher encounter rates over forest sites, indicating a specific preference and targeted use of artificial saltlicks for these species. Artificial saltlick sites successfully attracted a wide range of species, possibly because they provided valuable resources that would otherwise be absent in the study area. Such areas may be beneficial in diversifying and enriching habitats, particularly where natural mineral licks have been lost or habitats necessitate restoration or rehabilitation.

Mansor, Mohammad Saiful, Abdullah, Nurul Ashikin, Abdullah Halim, Muhammad Rasul, Md. Nor, Shukor, Ramli, Rosli (2018): Diet of tropical insectivorous birds in lowland Malaysian rainforest. Journal of Natural History 52 (35-36): 2301-2316, DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2018.1534015, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2018.1534015

Despite the increasing numbers of hydrodam worldwide, only a handful of studies evaluated their impacts on biodiversity. Compared to terrestrial animals, birds were thought to be less affected by inundation process, following impoundment. At the Hulu Terengganu Hydroelectric Dam in Peninsular Malaysia, our study compared species assemblages and diversity of birds within the dam area (i.e. the dam reservoir and catchment area) after recent logging and inundation in relation to a nearby forest logged 30 years ago. Using point count and mist-netting techniques, we recorded a total of 64 species (Shannon Index (H’) = 3.827) in the dam area and 91 species (H’=3.99) in historically-logged forests. Insectivore species richness was significantly higher in the historically-logged forests (Mann-Whitney: Z=4.339, N=205, p

In Peninsular Malaysia, passage and wintering Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) often congregate at nocturnal roosts in towns. As a Holarctic migratory species, it is at risk of population collapse. Despite extensive research, little is known about this species in its wintering grounds, especially in the tropics. This study aimed to determine how climate change influences the population growth of this species across a geographical area over a decade, from 2009 to 2019. A species distribution model was constructed using data obtained from the eBird database – a citizen science project – of records from diverse locations. We used the Kernel Density tool in ArcGIS to describe Barn Swallow density and expansion pattern across Peninsular Malaysia. We demonstrate that the Barn Swallow’s population has fallen by about 27.1% over the last decade. In 2009, the species was dispersed in two distinct areas: Perlis to Pulau Pinang; and the Pahang region bordering Selangor and Negeri Sembilan; in addition, some individuals chose to winter in south-eastern Johor. Within ten years, the flock has descended from Perlis to the northwest corner of Perak, while the vast wintering area in Pahang has decreased and stretched down to Melaka and Johor. The differences in Barn Swallow numbers and distribution patterns observed in this study could be a result of climate and land use changes which have caused this species to spread to parts of other wintering regions, altering the arrival and departure times of migration, thereby interfering with its breeding season.

Ismail NA, Jufri ABAK, Daud UNS, Nor SM, Mansor MS. 2020. Short Communication: Roosting behavior of Wintering Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) in Peninsular Malaysia. Biodiversitas 21: 661-665. The East Asian Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica gutturalis primarily breeds in China, Japan, and Korea, typically migrates to Southeast Asia during winter, including Malaysia. To date, knowledge regarding population of Barn Swallow are limited to their breeding grounds and other subspecies (e.g., European Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica rustica). A previous study on Barn Swallow wintering in Malaysia was conducted approximately 50 years ago and mainly focused on population dynamics. The objective of the present study was to investigate the roosting behavior of wintering Barn Swallows in a major roosting site, Bentong, central Peninsular Malaysia, from October 2018 to March 2019. Scan sampling at 5-min intervals was used to examine the roosting behavior of the swallows perching on service wires (i.e., electricity and telephone wires). We found that the swallows began to roost an average of 10 minutes after sunset and slept 55 minutes later. However, cloudy and rainy weather significantly affects swallow roosting period, leading them to perch earlier, 5 minutes before sunset. The pattern of roosting behavior was somewhat similar throughout the migration season, except in the early migration season (October), which was likely inconsistent due to their early adaptation to the town environment. Behavioral scan sampling revealed that swallows spend most of the time motionless, followed by preening. However, anthropogenic disturbances disrupt their behavior and sleep time. We also noted that this communally roosting bird behaved gregariously on wires, particularly at sites illuminated by light, which is likely an anti-predator mechanism.

Hydroelectric dam have since empowering Malaysia’s development since 1900 Sempam Hydroelectric dam were built in Raub. However, its detrimental effect were well documented in degrading and modifying forest habitat. The objective for present study is to determine the recolonization of bird’s species after the construction of a hydroelectric dam in Peninsular Malaysia. Study of bird species number and composition were done using both mist-net and observation method for three period of research; pre-log, construction and operational. The result of this study show that the species number is declining from 275 species in Pre-Log phase to 67 species in Construction phase. Bird species number increases in Operational phase with 102 species. Different composition of bird species on each phases indicate that bird present on each phase are suited to that particular condition. The re-emergence of pre-log species and wintering bird during operational phase show the recovery process after habitat degradation during construction phase. New species were also found during operational phases indicates that the habitat have been modified to fit the requirements of different bird. It is expected that the species number will continue to climb as the forest recover and habitat become more stable.

Human population growth and rapid development in Malaysia have created a rising demand for power. In order to meet this demand, hydropower has been identified as an alternative energy source due to the suitability of the climate and topography. The development of a hydroelectric dam, however, could impact natural habitats and their components, including the herpetofaunas. The Hulu Terengganu Hydroelectric Project (HTHEP) is one of the hydroelectric dam projects in Peninsular Malaysia that has extended the capacity of the existing Kenyir Dam. The impacts of the HTHEP on the herpetofaunal assemblage were studied during the dam construction and impoundment phases, from July 2014 to October 2015. Fenced pitfall traps and visual encounter surveys were used to obtain samples. Rescue operations were conducted at the Puah and Tembat Reservoirs after impoundment. A total of 22 species of amphibians and 34 species of reptilians were recorded. During the construction phase, both amphibians and reptilians decreased in species richness. During impoundment, the species richness and abundance of amphibians decreased abruptly because most populations were affected by the inundation, and only a few large adult individuals were found. Many cryptic reptilian species were found at the reservoir, especially Bronchocela cristatella. The amphibian and reptilian populations are anticipated to increase gradually, following the rejuvenation of their habitats. A theoretical impact model was developed for both the amphibian and reptilian communities for each dam development stage, with the aim of assisting conservation efforts in future sustainable dam development projects.

The pattern of forest structure changes is crucial to identify the leading ecological processes and future forest composition after disturbance. Hulu Terengganu, Malaysia was subjected to the development of a hydroelectric power plant. After the dam development, three forest habitat types were identified i.e. lowland dipterocarp remnants, secondary and isolated island forests. After one year, all trees were monitored in 39 units of 5 m × 5 m sample plots. In January 2017, forest edge had the highest number of individuals with 134 records from 36 families, 58 genera and 72 species compared to the ridge with 89 individuals (eight families, nine genera and 11 species) and islands recorded 59 individuals (nine families, 15 genera and 20 species). Forest edge also showed the highest density with 6700 ind./ha from 0.02 ha sample plots compared to the ridge (1780 ind./ha) in 0.05 ha and islands (1395 ind./ha) in 0.04 ha. Despite the difference in floral composition, these habitats had the same dominant species that of Macaranga tree species. In 2018, the number of plant individuals for all three habitats were slightly reduced. We suspected, elephants affected the regeneration processes. We recorded plants germinated from wild elephant dungs consisted of 32 species belonging to 15 families. Five species were considered as the most preferred plants by elephants. The regenerated tree species from our sample plots matched with the germinated seeds from the elephant dungs. In conclusion, forest regeneration at Hulu Terengganu was closely related with wildlife activities.

Impoundment is the main phase of dam development that significantly destroys mammals and its habitats. Elephant rescue activity in Kenyir Reservoir post-impoundment suggests the ability of mammals to swim to the remaining terrestrial habitats in search of shelters. Due to the lack of data on wildlife survival in the reservoirs of Malaysia, this study aimed to establish a list of mammal species surviving in Puah Reservoir, Terengganu after two years of inundation, to assess the developed adaptive behaviour and to describe their movement pattern in the reservoir. Four camera traps were placed on each of the seven selected land-bridge islands for 12 months. All captured images were analysed through camtrapR package in R-3.5.0 software. A total of 11 mammal species were recorded surviving in Puah Reservoir. From these species, Asian palm civet and long-tailed macaque have adapted to permanently inhabit an island while smooth-coated otter, Asian elephant and wild boar are well adapted to fully utilise the reservoir. The primates or solitary mammals such as Sumatran serow, barking deer, marbled cat, Malay tapir, dusky leaf monkey and pale-thighed langur have adapted to be the occasional utilisers of the reservoir. The second group has developed a movement strategy where their presence on each island are not overlapping with each other. This study concludes that mammals can survive in a reservoir by adapting to habitat changes and develop a survival strategy. This study will be among the earlier study in Malaysia which documents the survival data of mammals in reservoirs.

This paper presents data regarding the diversity, population density, and distribution of primate species within the Gunung Basur Permanent Forest Reserve (GBPFR). The survey was conducted from the 3rd–8th of November in 2019, covering 7 survey locations (Terang Pump House, Suda Intake, Renyok 1 Intake, Renyok 2 Intake, Renyok 3 Intake, Long Intake, and Long 2 Intake) within the reserve. A total of 36 hours was spent to perform random sampling observations. The focus of this survey was to identify diurnal primate species. A total of 5 species (Symphalangus syndactylus, Hylobates agilis, Presbytis siamensis, Trachypithecus obscurus, and Macaca nemestrina), belonging to the families Hylobatidae and Cercopithecidae, were observed during the survey period. The density of Trachypithecus obscurus was high at the study site, with 60 individuals identified, followed by Symphalangus syndactylus, with 45 individuals, Presbytis siamensis, with 39 individuals, Hylobates agilis, with 20 individuals, and Macaca nemestrina with only 3 individuals. Two of the identified species are classified as Totally Protected (Symphalangus syndactylus and Hylobates agilis), whereas the other 3 species (Macaca nemestrina, Presbytis siamensis, and Trachypithecus obscurus) as classified as Protected, according to the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716). According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, 2 species (Symphalangus syndactylus and Hylobates agilis) are considered to be Endangered, 2 species (Presbytis siamensis and Trachypithecus obscurus) are considered to be Near Threatened, and Macaca nemestrina is listed as Vulnerable. The data gathered from this study is crucial for designing a wildlife conservation plan for this reserve.

The Pergau lake basin is a man-made water catchment area comprise of 460 hectares due to the construction of hydroelectric dams in Pergau. It is located about 125 km southwest of Kota Bharu in the Jeli district in Kelantan and managed by Tenaga Nasional Berhad. The lake is rich in natural resources and the forest in the basin acts as a reservoir through water absorption and storage. Forests within the area catchments and basins can control soil erosion and erosion of river banks as well slope collapse is one of the sources of risk floods in terms of damage to property and infrastructure such as bridges and road. However, rapid population growth and urbanisation induced the pressure from human activities have been expanded into the forest catchment area. Therefore this study was conducted in the Pergau Lake (Dam) to safeguard their importance for socio-economic, well-being, ecotourism potential and sustaining its biodiversity. This study aims to predict the land use changes in the study area for 2035, parameterised with satellite images in 1988, 2003 and 2018 and the physical parameter such as slope, road, elevation, distance from built up area, green space edge and waterbody. The integrated approach of remote sensing, Geographical Information System (GIS) and Land Change Modeler-Markov Change Model were used to analyze the changes and their spatial pattern. The results showed that between 1994 and 2004, and between 2004 and 2014 the forest landscape in the Pergau Lake were decreased due to the development of the built-up area. Thus, the results will hopefully take into consideration for land use planning and forest protection for sustainable management planning of the forest catchment area. It is indicated that the spatial effect of green space is influenced by the historical spatial changes, implementation of the previous master planning efforts and uncontrolled land use expansion. This study is designed to provide the novel integrated approach for predicting landscape changes for the forest catchment area to provide the initial guideline for sustainable planning and management of forest catchment area.

Mosses of lowland forest between 350 to 640 m above sea level around the Pergau Dam within Gunung Basor Forest Reserve were opportunistically collected, curated and identified. The collection has been carried out along the existing forest trails and all of them were deposited to Herbarium of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKMB). A total of 66 species, four subspecies and 12 varieties in 46 genera and 25 families have been recorded. They represent 27.4% of the 299 taxa, 43.8% of 105 genera and 67.6% of 37 families of mosses recorded in Kelantan, also cover 14.6% of 562 taxa, 28.9% of 159 genera and 53.2% of 47 families of mosses reported in Peninsular Malaysia. A total of 15 taxa are new additions for Kelantan viz. Chaetomitrium leptopoma (Schwägr.) Bosch & Sande Lac., Ectropothecium falcifolium (Dixon) N. Nishim., Fissidens geminiflorus Dozy & Molk. var. geminiflorus, Floribundaria walkeri (Renauld & Cardot) Broth., Garovaglia angustifolia Mitt. var. bogorensis (M. Fleisch.) During, Groutiella tomentosa (Hornsch.) Wijk & Margad., Macromitrium angustifolium Dozy & Molk., Mitthyridium fasciculatum (Hook. & Grev.) H. Rob. subsp. obtusifolium (Lindb.) M. Menzel, Neckeropsis gracilenta (Bosch & Sande Lac.) M. Fleisch., Philonotis bartramioides (Griff.) Griffin & W.R. Buck, P. mollis (Dozy & Molk.) Mitt., P. roylei (Hook. f.) Mitt., Racopilum cuspidigerum (Schwägr.) Åongström, Syrrhopodon albo-vaginatus Schwägr. and Trematodon longicollis Michx. Meanwhile, Sematophyllum subhumile (Müll. Hal.) M. Fleisch. is a new record for Peninsular Malaysia. Based on the findings, the most speciose family documented is Calymperaceae with 12 species, while the largest genus is Fissidens (five species). The majority of the mosses are found as corticolous which grow on the tree trunks.

Ferns and lycophytes were opportunistically collected along the major trail at Gunung Basor Forest Reserve near Pergau Dam, Kelantan. Samples were curated, identified and deposited at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Herbarium (UKMB). From the sampling area, a total of 94 taxa of ferns and lycophytes in 55 genera and 29 families were identified. This figure represents 8.07% of the total 1165 taxa of ferns and lycophytes in Malaysia and 14.52% of 647 taxa recorded in Semenanjung Malaysia. Polypodiaceae is the largest family recorded with 11 species in eight genera. The second largest family is Aspleniaceae with 10 species in a single genus. This is followed by the family Grammitidaceae with eight species in six genera. The most widely recorded species is from the genus Asplenium. The smallest families with one species each are Blechnaceae, Cyatheaceae, Gleichiniaceae, Marattiaceae, Matoniaceae, Oleandraceae, Ophioglossaceae, Psilotaceae, Pteridaceae and Sinopteridaceae. From the 94 taxa reported, terrestrial species are the most dominant with ca. 53 species covering 56.0% and followed by epiphytic species (33%) and litophyte species (10.6%).

A surveyof amphibians and reptiles at Tasik Pergau, Kelantan was conducted from 30 until 31 October 2019 and 22 until 23 November 2019. Four sampling locations were surveyed, namely Long 1 & 2, Suda, Renyok, and Terang intake. The study was conducted using the Visual Encounter Survey method, an active sampling technique that is efficient for short observations. A total of 164 individuals were recorded which comprised of sixamphibian families and six reptiles families. The amphibian families recorded are Bufonidae, Dicroglossidae, Megophryidae, Microhylidae, Ranidae and Rhacophoridae. A total of 19 amphibian species of and eight reptile species were recorded during the sampling period. In addition, this study has recorded about 12 new records of amphibians and reptiles in Pergau area. These species are Limnonectes dionodon, L. malesianus, L. plicatellus, Megophrys nasuta, Hylarana erythraea, H. signata, Polypedates discantus, Calotes emma, Cyrtodactylus pulchellus, Eutropis macularia, Ahaetulla prasina and Xenochrophis trianguligerus,adding up to the total number of amphibians and reptiles to 42 species. Further studies need to be conducted intensive and extensively to obtain more information regarding amphibians and reptiles in Pergau area.

The study was conducted to determine phylogenetic relationships of Island Flying Fox (Pteropus hypomelanus) along the East and West Coast of the Peninsular Malaysia based on Cytochrome b sequences of mitochondrial DNA and to see the effectiveness of using this region in explaining the relationships among them. There are 29 genetic samples were collected from the several islands includes Dangli Island (Langkawi), Tioman Island (Johor), Tinggi Island (Johor), Redang Island (Terengganu) and Pangkor Island (Perak). Meanwhile, one sequences from the GeneBank represent as outgroup, Pteropus vampyrus to construct a complete phylogenetic tree. Tree topologies were built using the Neighbour Joining (NJ) and Maximum Parsimony (MP) methods. The resulting phylogenetic tree showed a clear separation between (North-West) and (South-East) population supported with 100% bootstrap value. The effectiveness of Cytochrome b has successfully resolved the phylogenetic tree when separating individuals between the populations. This study can contribute to the resolution of taxonomic and systematic problems of Island Flying Fox in Peninsular Malaysia by looking at the effectiveness of Cytochrome b region in explaining the phylogenetic relationships between the populations.

The Painted Stork is an introduced species. The population started with 4 individuals being brought from Sri Lanka and handed over to Zoo Negara in 1965. It was allowed to fly freely within the Zoo Negara. However, in the last 10 years, this species has been actively spreading and can easily be seen in lakes and ponds around Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. Due to its high adaptation, survival and breeding capability, the presence of this species may threat the survival of local bird species such as Milky Stork. Thus, this study was conducted to i) determine the population growth pattern of this species in Peninsular Malaysia, and ii) to understand how population at Zoo Negara forming other colonies such as at Putrajaya Wetland and Shah Alam main lake. Secondary data were gathered from published and unpublished reports, and primary data were collected from interviews with local authorities and personal observation at the sites between 2015 and 2017. Historical data suggested that the Painted Stork at Zoo Negara begun to explore outside Zoo’s compound in 2004, and successfully created breeding colonies at Putrajaya Wetland and Shah Alam main lake in 2008. Between 2004 and 2008 Painted Storks may have travelled from Zoo Negara to Putrajaya Wetland and Shah Alam main lake for feeding before permanently residing at these two sites. Data also suggested that populations at the three study sites grew exponentially until 2017; y=7E-108e0.126 for Zoo Negara, y=2E-250e0.2887 for Putrajaya Wetland, and y=7E-204e0.2353 for Shah Alam. Average population increased was estimated at 10 to 13% per year at all sites. Assessing the breeding success of this species, it is predicted that this species may have impact on the survival of other local water bird species such as Herons and Storks. Thus, proper management of this introduced stork species is urgently needed.

Re-introduction programme has been adopted in solving the conflict issues related with the Malayan sun bears in Peninsular Malaysia. Two rehabilitated sun bears (#1533 and #1532) were collared and released in Tembat Forest Reserve, Hulu Terengganu to study the home-range and activity pattern. Tracking of sun bear in wild have be conducted manually by using telemetry devices namely radio frequency systems and GPS-UHF download system. A total of 912 locations were recorded. The home range size (indicate by the size of convex polygon) of bear #1533 is larger than bear #1532, with value of 95% minimum convex polygon was 130 km2 compared to its counterpart was 33.28 km2. Bears moved to forest (primary and secondary) and oil palm area. Bear #1533 and #1532 were more active in daytime (diurnal) especially from sunrise to midday. Activity pattern of both rehabilitated bears suggested influence by their daily activity in captivity. This study has proposed two guidelines in re-introduction, 1) minimum distance between release site and possible conflict area is 10–13 km and 2) release during the bear’s active time.Re-introduction programme has been adopted in solving the conflict issues related with the Malayan sun bears in Peninsular Malaysia. Two rehabilitated sun bears (#1533 and #1532) were collared and released in Tembat Forest Reserve, Hulu Terengganu to study the home-range and activity pattern. Tracking of sun bear in wild have be conducted manually by using telemetry devices namely radio frequency systems and GPS-UHF download system. A total of 912 locations were recorded. The home range size (indicate by the size of convex polygon) of bear #1533 is larger than bear #1532, with value of 95% minimum convex polygon was 130 km2 compared to its counterpart was 33.28 km2. Bears moved to forest (primary and secondary) and oil palm area. Bear #1533 and #1532 were more active in daytime (diurnal) especially from sunrise to midday. Activity pattern of both rehabilitated bears suggested influence by their daily activity in captivity. This study has proposed two guidelines in re-introduction, 1) minimum distance betw...

Exploitation of forest for commercial agriculture has taken toll on wildlife species worldwide. A forest farm project with the aim of compensating the forest loss has been implemented in Kemasul Forest Reserve, of Pahang State, Malaysia through plantation of fast growing and adaptable plant species. The objective of this study is to determine the impact of this practice on diversity. The study was conducted in a long strip of forest fragment, where two study sites with different landscape matrix types were chosen; oil palm plantation (JR) and Acacia mangium plantations (CM). A total of 75 individuals from 13 species and six families were collected at both sites. The result shows forest with A. mangium plantations matrix types yield higher species diversity. There are 10 shared species that can be found at both study sites including Callosciurus notatus, Hystrix brachyura, Macaca nemestrina, and Tupaia glis. However, some species only existed at selected sites such as Leopoldamys sabanus which can only be found at JR. On the other hand, Callosciurus nigrovittatus, Viverra tangalunga and Paradoxurus hermaphroditus were only recorded at CM. Out of all individuals collected, four of them are protected species as reported by IUCN. Callosciurus nigrovittatus is listed as Near Threatened while the other three species (Maxomys rajah, Maxomys whiteheadi, and Macaca nemestrina) are Vulnerable. If conservation efforts in Kemasul Forest Reserved are neglected, these four species would be exposed to critical threats that might cause them facing extinction in the future. Mann Whitney U test shows no significant difference of distribution and species richness of small to medium-sized mammals in both study sites (U=51.5, p=0.59). This study therefore reveals that although the compensatory forest plantation initiatives yield positive effect on diversity of mammal’s species, it does not necessarily provide ample food resources to the wildlife, instead it serves as important buffer zones for wildlife movement.

Human-sun bear conflict may negatively affect human properties and long-term survival of the sun bear. These conflicts become a major problem for conservation of the sun bear. Understanding what factors cause human-bear conflict remains poorly understood. Studies of conflict extent through identifying affected areas while accessing their level of risk are a prelude to reduce wildlife conflict issues. In this research, the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm was applied to predict potential conflict areas of the Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) in Peninsular Malaysia and identify the key factors shaping conflict distribution. The 233 spatially disperse conflicted sun bears were analysed in relation to 11 predictor variables. The risk model demonstrated that approximately 1% of Peninsular Malaysia was comprised of high potential conflict area, while good, moderate, and least potential conflict areas constituted 2%, 5%, and 25%, respectively. The predictive model with an AUC value of 0.92 indicated that the crop areas adjacent to the forest edge and with high precipitation were significantly influenced on sun bear conflicts. This study provides useful tools for identifying potential conflict hotspots and highlights the significance of proper landscape planning to improve the mitigation of human-sun bear conflict and conservation efforts throughout Peninsular Malaysia.

The national park is considered as one of the protected areas (PA) created to conserve and protect biodiversity for the benefit of living being and humankind. Penang National Park (PNP) was gazetted in 2003 under the National Parks Act 1980 with a total coverage area of 2,563 hectares. It is in the North-Western part of Penang Island. Referring to its size PNP is among the smallest national parks in the world. The main purpose of (PNP) establishment is to preserve and enhance natural scenery, wildlife and cultural heritage. Being one of the protected areas located in the fast-growing state, PNP faces threats such as development pressures, encroachment and illegal development surrounding the park. This issue threatens its function to conserve biodiversity and raises conflict between the community and the management of this area. To maintain its sustainability the protected area should be able to adapt to changes in social and ecological aspects in support of the conservation agenda. Thus, an investigation has been carried out to understand the views of the local communities towards PNP. Data were collected from local communities living near PNP through questionnaire survey involving 282 respondents from two main areas nearby the national park i.e Teluk Bahang and Kampung Pantai Acheh. The understanding on determinants of local community attitudes towards PA might provide guidance in the design, management and assessment of this strategic form of biodiversity conservation. The outcomes were to establish the local community perceptions on the impact of protected area and analyses the association on the economic, social and environmental impact that support the long-term persistence of conservation concern.

A study was done to compare amphibian species composition and richness between a disturbed forest due to logging/dam construction and a 30-year old logged forest at Hulu Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia. This study was conducted from August to October 2014, using drift fenced-pitfall traps. The upstream (UP) and downstream riverine area (DP) of a dam called Puah Dam (PD) represented the disturbed forest habitat, while Sg. Deka Wildlife Reserve (SDWR) represented a 30-year old regenerating logged forest. There were six amphibian species found at SDWR, while four species were recorded at UP and DP.

The establishment of protected areas has always been associated with a strategy to conserve biodiversity. A well-managed protected areas not only protect the ecosystem and threatened species but also provides benefits to the public. These indeed require sound management practices through the application of protected areas management categories which can be is seen as tools for planning, establishment and administration of protected areas as well as to regulate the activities in the protected areas. However, in Peninsular Malaysia the implementation of the protected areas management categories was carried out based on the 'ad-hoc' basis without realising the important of the criteria based on the local values. Thus, an investigation has been sought to establish the criteria used in application to the protected areas management categories in Peninsular Malaysia. The outcomes revealed the significant of social, environment and economic criteria in establishing the protected area management categories in Peninsular Malaysia.

The establishment of protected areas in peninsular Malaysia was initiated during the British colonial period. The combination of political scenario and socioeconomic development has influenced the planning and management of protected areas in peninsular Malaysia. As a result, some of them did not receive much attention and have been exposed to various human land use activities such as agriculture, urbanization, and building highways, a concern particularly since the rapid land development for agriculture in the 1950s and the 1960s. However, from the 1980s to recent years, urbanization and other similar types of development are emerging to affect the sustainability of protected areas. Assessing landscape element change or simply landscape change of protected areas and their link to its development trends is an urgent need to identify the main priorities for protection and conservation. Therefore, this chapter presents the development trends of protected areas, followed by some analysis on landscape changes both inside and outside of protected areas in three temporal years: 1988, 1996, and 2005. The degree of their impact on ecosystem of the protected areas is also presented. The objective is to provide understanding of the linkages between the development trends and landscape changes and their impact on the ecosystems of the protected areas.