The Malaysian Highway Authority and Public Works Department have mandated the inclusion of dedicated wildlife tunnels in the design and construction of all new roads and highways across the nation.
This significant policy shift aims to mitigate the detrimental impact of expanding transportation networks on animal habitats and ensure the safe passage of wildlife across fragmented landscapes. The Works Ministry (KKR) highlighted the recently constructed underpass tunnel on the West Coast Expressway (WCE) in the Taiping Selatan-Bruas stretch as a commendable example of this integrated approach, developed in close consultation and with the approval of the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan). The ministry lauded the West Coast Expressway concession company for its commitment to ecological preservation by incorporating a dedicated underpass, facilitating the seamless movement of wildlife populations between previously connected forest areas bisected by the highway. This proactive measure underscores a growing recognition of the critical need to consider ecological connectivity in infrastructure planning, moving beyond traditional engineering-centric approaches. The construction of such wildlife corridors is vital for maintaining biodiversity, preventing habitat isolation, and reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions, which pose risks to both animal populations and human safety.
The Works Ministry further emphasised the ongoing close collaboration between the ministry and Perhilitan, reinforcing their joint commitment to continuously enhance wildlife preservation efforts in the context of infrastructure development. This inter-agency cooperation is crucial for ensuring that ecological considerations are not merely an afterthought but are integral to the entire lifecycle of road and highway projects, from initial planning and design to construction and long-term management. The expertise of wildlife authorities is invaluable in identifying critical animal movement pathways and designing effective mitigation measures such as underpasses, overpasses, and eco-ducts.
In addition to the construction of dedicated wildlife crossings, the ministry has also urged motorists to exercise caution and reduce their speed when traversing identified wildlife crossing zones, which will be clearly marked with appropriate signage and street lighting. This appeal to responsible driving behaviour highlights the shared responsibility of both infrastructure developers and road users in ensuring the safety and well-being of wildlife. The effectiveness of wildlife tunnels and other crossing structures is significantly enhanced when coupled with public awareness and adherence to traffic regulations in sensitive areas.
This policy directive from the Malaysian Highway Authority and Public Works Department sets a noteworthy precedent for other nations grappling with the challenges of balancing infrastructure development and biodiversity conservation. The integration of wildlife tunnels into new road and highway projects represents a forward-thinking approach that acknowledges the intrinsic value of natural ecosystems and the long-term benefits of ecological sustainability. By prioritising the creation of safe passage for animals, Malaysia is not only safeguarding its rich biodiversity but also demonstrating a commitment to building infrastructure that is both functional and environmentally responsible, fostering a harmonious coexistence between human development and the natural world. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder that well-planned infrastructure can contribute to, rather than detract from, the health and resilience of our planet’s ecosystems.
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