The heartbreaking image of a mother elephant refusing to budge and standing watch over her calf killed in a highway collision on Mother’s Day strikes a deep chord nationwide. The poignant scene is more than symbolic—it is a stark reminder that animals, like humans, possess strong maternal instincts and protective bonds. 

The tragedy unfolded in the Belum-Temengor forest complex, one of Southeast Asia’s most biodiverse ecosystems and a critical refuge for endangered species such as the Malayan tiger, tapir, sun bear, and Asian elephant. As Malaysia continues to grapple with a surge in wildlife-vehicle collisions, conservationists warn that without swift, science-backed interventions, these preventable deaths will accelerate the path to extinction for many of these species.

Between 2016 and 2021, more than 2,500 animals were killed on Malaysian roads, including numerous endangered species. Since 2023 alone, six Malayan tigers have died in road accidents—an alarming statistic considering fewer than 150 remain in the wild.

Taking into account these tragic roadkills, MCA Youth advocates implementation of the following measures:

1. Wildlife Warning Signage and Reflective Markers
Enhance road signage in known wildlife crossing zones. Use species-specific warning signs, reflective markers, and motion-triggered lights that alert drivers to the presence of animals.

2. Enhanced Road Lighting in Crossing Zones
Install targeted, wildlife-sensitive lighting in key crossing areas to improve visibility for drivers while minimising disturbance to nocturnal animals.

3. Community Engagement and Education
Implement educational campaigns and outreach programmes for motorists, freight companies, and local communities to raise awareness of wildlife conservation and safe driving practices in high-risk zones.

4. Wildlife Collision Data Monitoring
Develop a national wildlife roadkill database to log incidents, analyse patterns, and guide the placement of mitigation infrastructure based on real-time data.

5. Speed Reduction Zones
Establish and enforce reduced speed limits in wildlife corridors. Use speed bumps, rumble strips, and visible signage to slow traffic in critical areas.

6. Thermal Imaging Drones with Real-Time Alerts
Deploy drones equipped with thermal sensors to detect animals near roads. These drones can trigger flashing warning signs to alert drivers in real-time, improving reaction time and reducing collisions.

7. Wildlife Crossings and Fencing
Construct purpose-built wildlife overpasses, underpasses, and fencing systems that guide animals safely across roads and away from traffic.

Each animal lost to a road collision is a step closer to extinction—and a tragic reflection of our failure to coexist with nature. The image of the grieving elephant mother is a wake-up call. It demands more than sympathy—it demands action.

As Malaysia looks to position itself as a regional leader in conservation, more so, as the Chair of ASEAN this year, integrating these proven measures into national infrastructure and transport planning is no longer optional—it is essential.

Saw Yee Fung
MCA Youth Secretary General

13 May 2025

-MCA Comm-