I WAS disappointed to read that Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Azmi Khalid has stated that he saw culling as the solution to the problem of macaque overpopulation in urban areas (”Culling solution to macaque explosion” — NST, Feb 11).

There are non-lethal ways to address the problem of human-monkey conflicts.

The British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection, along with non-governmental organisations and wildlife experts, have offered suggestions to Azmi regarding means of controlling the conflicts humanely.

These methods include reproduction control, relocation and, most importantly, educating the public to adopt behaviour that does not encourage monkeys to rely on humans for food.

Changing human behaviour is the most important single solution and should be adopted. Providing a food source reduces their innate fear of humans and makes them reliant.

Conflict between humans and wildlife over habitats is a growing issue facing many governments. Other countries have adopted humane methods of controlling their primate populations.

Only recently, the authorities in Singapore announced an all-out ban on monkey feeding and heavy fines for those who do.

I ask that the authorities in Malaysia look at similar measures to protect its indigenous population of monkeys.

SARAH KITE, Special projects adviser, British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection, London

Source: NST – February 12, 2008