KUCHING: The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has deployed a SWAT team to assess the current situation following the recent sighting of a Bornean clouded leopard (Neofelis diardi borneensis), which went viral on social media after being recorded in Matu, Mukah.
Controller of Wildlife and general manager of SFC, Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said that SFC takes the matter seriously.
He advised local residents to remain vigilant, avoid any close interaction with the animal, and promptly report any sightings to the authorities.
“Wildlife is an invaluable asset, and their protection is a shared responsibility. SFC will continue to provide updates on the details of this discovery from time to time,” the corporation said in a statement following the recent incident.
With the discovery of the clouded leopard, SFC said it is an important indicator that Sarawak remains a natural habitat for fully protected wildlife species.
The corporation added that this incident demonstrates the positive results of the Sarawak government’s ongoing efforts, through SFC, to conserve and protect the state’s biodiversity.
However, the appearance of the clouded leopard during the daytime and in areas near human settlements is likely due to habitat disturbances or a shortage of food sources in the surrounding forests.
