Could these stamps inadvertently promote illegal wildlife hunting?

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Pos Malaysia's Exotic Food Stamps May Encourage Illegal Wildlife Hunting

Pos Malaysia's planned release of postage stamps featuring exotic dishes, including porcupine steak and rendang, raises concerns that it could inadvertently promote the hunting of protected wildlife. The selection of such themes, particularly those involving animals like porcupines, risks encouraging illegal hunting and consumption, especially given the global decline in wild animal populations and specific protections afforded to certain species in Malaysia.
Promotion of Protected Species Consumption

The article highlights that Pos Malaysia intends to issue stamps depicting "sea cucumber salad, turmeric fried grasshoppers and porcupine steak and rendang." Diyana Lean Abdullah, head of Pos Malaysia's philately unit, stated that the chosen dishes are unique and enjoyed by many. However, this choice is problematic as it could be interpreted as an endorsement of consuming wild animals, a practice that goes against global conservation efforts aimed at preserving dwindling wildlife populations.
Legal Protections for Porcupines

A significant concern is that some porcupine species found in Malaysia are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. Specifically, the Malayan Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) is mentioned as a protected species. By featuring porcupine dishes on postage stamps, Pos Malaysia risks inadvertently encouraging the hunting and consumption of these protected animals, thereby undermining existing conservation laws and efforts.
Negative Impact on National Image and Tourism

The issuance of stamps promoting the consumption of exotic wild animals could project a negative image of Malaysia on the international stage. Instead of showcasing the nation as progressive and ecologically aware, it might be perceived as backward. This could potentially harm tourism and damage the country's reputation, especially when there are numerous other positive aspects of Malaysia, such as its natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, that could be promoted instead.

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Could these stamps inadvertently promote illegal wildlife hunting?

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