There is a critical issue that affects Malaysia’s lush landscapes and biodiversity: deforestation. Malaysia’s rainforests play a vital role in providing a home to the diverse flora and fauna. With some of the world’s oldest rainforests like the Taman Negara Rainforests and Borneo Lowland Rainforest (divided between Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia), the forests are not just picturesque landscapes of our country but also crucial in maintaining global ecological balance.
Have you ever wondered about the far-reaching impact of deforestation?
The Brutality Of Deforestation In Malaysia
You need to understand the serious impact deforestation brings to Malaysia. Here are some of the effects:
1. Loss Of Biodiversity
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One of the most brutal effects of deforestation is the loss of biodiversity. As trees are felled to make way for development, habitats are destroyed, leading to the decline and extinction of numerous species.
Malaysian Wildlife stated that the species at risk now include the Orangutans, Asian Elephant, Malayan Tapir, and Malayan Tiger. According to an article by WWF Malaysia, there are fewer than 150 Malayan Tigers in Malaysia because their habitats are destroyed.
2. Temperature Rise
Image via South China Morning Post
We all know how hot the Malaysian weather can get especially during the mid-year. This is because deforestation has impacted the cooling process in our environment. Trees evaporate water into the atmosphere, which contributes to cooling. Our rainforest is actually our natural ‘air-conditioner’ and deforestation has impacted the environment’s cooling process, causing a temperature rise and leading to climate change.
3. Natural Disasters
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Deforestation is one of the main reasons for natural disasters in Malaysia, such as landslides and floods. The absence of tree roots makes the soil more susceptible to erosion which could lead to landslides or send heavy layers of sediments downstream, preventing rivers from flowing smoothly, which is why we always suffer from floods.
4. Displacement Of Indigenous Communities
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Many indigenous communities in Malaysia have deep connections to the forests, relying on them for their livelihoods and cultural practices. Deforestation often leads to the displacement of these communities, disrupting their cultural identity and livelihoods.
A case study by Earth.org has shown that the Penan tribe in Borneo’s rainforest has been affected negatively due to deforestation for palm oil and timber plantations. This has caused them to no longer have access to traditional resources which has resulted in food poverty and a loss of cultural identity.
You can also read about the empowerment journey of our indigenous women that shines through The Asli Co.
5. Economic Impacts
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While short-term economic gains may be achieved through deforestation for logging or agriculture, the long-term consequences can be detrimental. Deforestation may continue to impact industries such as agriculture and tourism in Malaysia.
The impact of deforestation in Malaysia becomes evident, and the consequences are far-reaching and affect us all. By understanding these effects, we can advocate for sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and policies that preserve our invaluable forests. After all, the forest has always been taking care of us, so it is time to return the gratitude!
Next, you can read about 1 Utama’s Feed-The-Fish charity initiative to combat illegal wildlife trafficking.
