KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s protected forests and national parks are increasingly targeted by foreign poachers, mainly from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar, hunting endangered species like the Malayan tiger, leopard, sun bear, and elephant.

Perhilitan director-general Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim said poachers often operate near logging and plantation areas bordering forests, and may begin using advanced tools like drones and digital maps.

To combat the threat, Perhilitan has formed an elite armed unit called Sparta, trained to track and apprehend armed intruders deep in the jungle. The team works closely with police and the military and has intensified patrols in high-risk areas, especially those linked to Vietnamese poachers.