Two specially trained detection dogs are now safeguarding endangered species at Malaysia's busiest airport, sniffing out smuggled wildlife before illegal traders can transport them abroad, reported The Vibes.
The Belgian Malinois dogs, Van and Perry, help authorities detect concealed animals in passenger luggage.
Perhilitan, the country's department of wildlife protection and national parks, intercepted illegal wildlife valued at approximately 5.4 million Malaysian ringgits ($1.27 million) that smugglers attempted to transport through Kuala Lumpur International Airport during 27 months from early 2023 through this March.
Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad provided the canine team. The dogs were brought from the Netherlands and underwent specialized training to identify items protected under international conservation agreements.
"So far, 10 investigation papers have been opened by Perhilitan related to cases of wildlife smuggling through KLIA during the same period. On average, these wild animals are being smuggled to South Asia, Indonesia, and Vietnam," Perhilitan Director-General Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim told Harian Metro, via The Vibes.
You can appreciate these hard-working dogs for their role in protecting vulnerable creatures like baby siamangs, iguanas, birds, snakes, and turtles. Their work is especially important now, as attempted wildlife smuggling at KLIA has increased by 42% since 2023.
Stay hydrated and refreshed this holiday season — without any sugar or harmful additives Nuun’s zero-sugar hydration tablets are a perfect, guilt-free way to enhance your water throughout the day. You’ll get five essential electrolytes for everyday hydration — with zero grams of sugar. Plus, Nuun tablets are certified vegan and gluten-free, and they’re the perfect size to keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you'll want a healthy, restorative drink. Learn more → |
When flying internationally, you might be unaware of smugglers' methods. "Usually, these animals are put in plastic containers, packed in boxes, or wrapped with stickers before being checked in as luggage," Abdul Kadir explained to Harian Metro.
The dogs' efforts protect both individual animals and help preserve biodiversity. Illegal wildlife trade threatens vulnerable species, especially in ecologically diverse regions like Malaysia.
For people who care about conservation, these detection dogs are a compassionate approach to a challenging issue. They help authorities without creating delays for regular travelers.
Malaysia Airports Holdings added that the dogs "were trained to detect hidden wildlife in luggage, and these four-legged heroes help stop smuggling before it takes flight," The Vibes shared.
There's a reason dermatologists personally use this daily moisturizing sunscreen more than any other brand Dermatologists see and understand skin at a much deeper level than the rest of us, and they know that the perfect SPF both protects and corrects your skin. That's why they trust, recommend, and personally use EltaMD more than any other brand. EltaMD's clinically tested formulas are designed with dermatologists to meet the needs of any skin type or condition. They're also designed for consistent daily wear to build long-term resilience with a moisturizing, lightweight, non-comedogenic texture — plus hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Learn more → |
|
Which of these groups has the biggest role to play in reducing food waste? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Grocery stores 🛒 
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
