Forum: Signs and reminders aren’t enough to curb appalling behaviour in nature spots

I am sure many people were sad on reading the article “Young macaque found dead in fishing net on tree in Pulau Ubin” (Sept 9). I have observed examples of appalling behaviour while visiting our nature parks in the Central Catchment area, including a man using a slingshot to shoot stones at monkeys, a couple using a stick to prod a colugo, and irresponsible anglers fishing waist-deep in the reservoirs.

I have reported these incidents to the National Parks Board and national water agency PUB (for illegal fishing in reservoirs) but have continued to see such incidents over the years.

I have visited protected nature parks in other countries. The entry points to these places are usually gated. Park rangers stationed at the gates ensure that no plastic bottle or bags with food are brought in. Park rangers can also be seen patrolling regularly to ensure people behave respectfully towards the flora and fauna.

Stronger enforcement measures are needed here to protect wildlife in their environment. The authorities should consider issuing notices for such behaviour because constant reminders to anglers to fish responsibly or putting up signs to urge people to behave well in our parks have not solved the problem for years.

I urge the relevant authorities to do more to protect our nature parks, reservoirs and islands from unscrupulous and amoral behaviour.

Mahinder Singh