KOTA KINABALU: The pangolin will be classified as a totally-protected species in Sabah.
Once that happens, the Sunda pangolin, or Manis javanica, will enjoy similar protection like seven other animals in the state.
The Sumatran rhinoceros, orang utan, sun bear, proboscis monkey, clouded leopard, Bornean pygmy elephant and dugong are listed as totally-protected species under the Sabah Wildlife Enactment 1997.
Those found guilty of harming or killing these animals can be jailed between six months and five years.
The Sabah Pangolin Workshop Group was recently formed to prepare a working paper to be submitted to the state cabinet to elevate the level of protection of the species.
Sabah Wildlife Department assistant director Dr Sen Nathan said this was necessary because of the rampant hunting of pangolins.
Between May 2007 and January 2009, 22,200 pangolins were hunted and killed to supply international syndicates. Most of the pangolins came from Keningau, Kota Belud, Kota Marudu and Ranau.