EdgePoint Towers Sdn Bhd, part of EdgePoint Infrastructure, has successfully deployed its first Connectivity for Conservation project at the Al-Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve in Ulu Tembeling, Jerantut, Pahang. The initiative represents a significant technological advancement in wildlife conservation, particularly for the critically endangered Malayan tiger, with only an estimated 150 remaining in the wild in Malaysia.
The project, implemented in partnership with the Pahang State Parks Corporation (PTNP) and The Habitat Foundation, utilizes Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology to connect manned guard posts and camp sites in remote, dense rainforest areas. This connectivity enables real-time coordination and communication for rangers and research staff, supporting incident reporting, navigation, and location tagging for emergency communication and response protocols.
Muniff Kamaruddin, Chief Executive Officer of EdgePoint Towers, emphasized the company's Environmental, Social and Governance commitment to tiger conservation through technology. "Protecting biodiversity is a crucial component of sustainable development, and by leveraging our expertise in connectivity and infrastructure, we aim to strengthen monitoring and protection of Malaysia's endangered tigers," he stated. The integration of off-grid solar and battery systems addresses operational constraints such as limited fuel supply and power access, ensuring optimal equipment performance with minimal on-site intervention.
Encik Zainal Abidin bin Othman, CEO of PTNP, highlighted the urgent need for innovative approaches given the alarming scarcity of Malayan tigers. "Through the enhanced connectivity provided by EdgePoint's solution, PTNP together with the service operator of Al-Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve, Enggang Management Services Sdn. Bhd. and implementing partners can now benefit with better communications in the deep forest, instead of depending on satellite phones only," he explained. This serves as a risk mitigation plan alongside patrolling and monitoring, improving safety for patrollers while enhancing park management.
Justine Vaz, Executive Director from The Habitat Foundation, described the initiative as demonstrating "the synergistic potential of partnerships between corporations, government agencies, and NGOs in addressing real-world challenges." The enhanced connectivity will improve coordination and data sharing among conservation stakeholders operating in remote landscapes and reinforce enforcement coordination to protect Malaysia's endangered tigers.
The Connectivity for Tiger Conservation project marks a pioneering collaboration between technology and conservation, demonstrating how digital infrastructure can be powerful in safeguarding Malaysia's rich natural heritage. For more information on EdgePoint, please visit https://edgepointinfra.com/.
