Wildlife trade monitoring network TRAFFIC and the Wildlife and National Parks Department in their report released today said there has been an improvement in the enforcement and conviction of those involved in the hunting of the protected species.

But the report, titled “From seizures to conviction: Stronger penalties for serow offences in Peninsular Malaysia”, said efforts to protect the animal have been hampered by its widespread use in traditional medicine as well as in restaurants serving exotic meat.

It said a total of 39 people had been arrested in 18 seizures since 2003.

The report said there was a need for periodic checks on restaurants.

“The majority of the serow cases recorded in the past did not result in strong convictions, in part due to the lower penalties and powers vested in the authorities under the old legislation,” it said.

“In more recent times, however, this has improved largely due to the commitment of the prosecution team at Perhilitan.”

The Sumatran serow, which is found only in Peninsular Malaysia, is listed as a Totally Protected species under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010.

While habitat loss remains its primary threat due to quarrying works and development, illegal hunting and trade for consumption of its meat and parts poses an equally grave risk to its survival.

Serows are prized for their heads, horns and skins, all of which are commonly observed in open markets and stalls, the report said.