CYBERJAYA: The Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) has been releasing prey animals into the forests.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the move aimed to keep tigers from venturing out of their natural habitats in search of food.
He said maintaining a stable population of prey animals was crucial for the survival of tigers and for minimising human-wildlife conflicts.
"I have received initial reports about the recent incident of the tiger attack in Gerik.
"While it's important to highlight that maintaining habitats plays a crucial role, we are also examining the condition of the prey animals that are the food source for the tigers.
"There have been reports that when the number of prey animals in the forest is affected, it may drive the tigers out of their habitat.
"As such, Perhilitan has been releasing prey animals into the forest to prevent the tigers from leaving their habitat," he said when met after the KFC Scholarships Award Ceremony today.
He was responding to the incident on Tuesday where a man was attacked by a tiger, and his lifeless body was later found in a forested area near Bersia.
Nik Nazmi added current efforts might require further enhancement.
"A comprehensive study is needed to better understand the situation," he said, highlighting the ongoing issue of prey animal decline.
It was reported that during the 5am incident, the man was heading to the toilet when his wife heard a tiger's roar.
Perak police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris said when the wife opened the door to their quarters, she saw a tiger dragging her husband into the bushes.
Around noon, the victim's body was found near the quarters where they were staying, with severe injuries to his left leg and neck.