Chery Malaysia Champions River Terrapin Conservation with TCS Partnership
Chery Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship by supporting the conservation of one of Malaysia’s most overlooked endangered species — the river terrapin. Through a contribution to the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS), the company is helping to safeguard the critically endangered Southern River Terrapin (Batagur affinis) and the fragile ecosystems it inhabits.
Protecting a Critically Endangered Species
The Southern River Terrapin is found only in the river systems of Malaysia and Cambodia, making it one of the least known freshwater turtle species globally. In Malaysia, the Kemaman River in Terengganu remains one of its last refuges. However, pollution, habitat degradation, and illegal egg collection have driven the species to the brink of extinction.
Since its founding in 2011, the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia has led the nation’s only NGO dedicated exclusively to freshwater turtle conservation. Its 15-year community-based programme in Kemaman combines scientific research, captive breeding, habitat protection, and local community engagement, achieving measurable success in protecting terrapins. To date, the society has saved over 11,000 terrapin eggs and released close to 6,000 hatchlings into the Kemaman River.
Chery’s Contribution to Conservation
During a recent visit to TCS in Kampung Pasir Gajah, Chery Malaysia symbolically adopted 31 terrapins and sponsored the purchase of 16 bags of feed pellets, each weighing 20kg, to support the animals raised at the centre. This contribution will sustain ongoing conservation work while also raising awareness of the river terrapin’s ecological importance.
Michael Chew, Vice President of Chery Malaysia, remarked:
“Preserving Malaysia’s natural heritage is as important as driving progress on the road. The river terrapin is a living symbol of the health of our rivers. By supporting TCS, we hope to inspire more Malaysians to protect this unique part of our biodiversity.”
Dr. Chen Pelf Nyok, Co-founder and Executive Director of TCS, expressed appreciation:
“We are grateful to Chery Malaysia for recognising the importance of protecting our river terrapins. This partnership not only sustains our work but also raises national awareness of an often-overlooked species.”
A Broader Impact
River terrapins are crucial for maintaining healthy rivers by aiding nutrient cycling and serving as indicators of water quality. Protecting them benefits local communities, fisheries, and ecotourism alike.
Chery Malaysia’s support reflects its broader commitment to sustainability, environmental protection, and community engagement, ensuring that future generations inherit Malaysia’s rich natural heritage. We’ve also observed Chery Malaysia’s other CSR efforts, which include contributing toward the local professional sports scene and supporting victims of the Putra Heights gas explosion & fire.
