BCI updates and conservation news
Large flying fox (Pteropus vampyrus) male roosting, Malaysia
Photo: Thomas Marent/ Minden Pictures
rhu island
Protecting Large Flying Foxes in Malaysia
Stakeholders urge protected status for island with critical roost
Rhu is a small uninhabited island off the coast of Peninsular Malaysia’s Terengganu state. It is a critical refuge for the Endangered large flying fox (Pteropus vampyrus). Bat Conservation International is supporting the work of in-country partners to protect this island and the sea surrounding it from several threats, including land use change, encroachment, and hunting.
Large flying fox (Pteropus vampyrus) male roosting, Malaysia
Photo: Thomas Marent/ Minden Pictures
In early 2023, Terengganu State Parks Management Council, Reef Check Malaysia, and Nature Based Solutions led a series of stakeholder workshops to discuss what would be needed to designate the island and its surrounding waters as a state park. The project establishes several “firsts” for Peninsular Malaysia. This is the first time a habitat was protected specifically for bats in Peninsular Malaysia, as well as the first time management of marine and terrestrial habitats was integrated into one protected area. Finally, it has been one of the first occasions where local stakeholders were fully informed and consulted for their input in advance, before a protected area was officially created.
The project establishes several “firsts” for Peninsular Malaysia. This would be the first time a habitat was protected specifically for bats in Peninsular Malaysia.
Local stakeholders discuss the proposed designation at a consultation workshop.
Photo: Rahayu Zulkifli
The local fishing community was involved with the engagement process and participated in consultations.
Photo: Rahayu Zulkifli