Latest news with #turtle
The Sun
26-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
Nature and humanity, hand in hand
MALAYSIA is home to some of the world's richest biodiversity. From lush rainforests and winding rivers to vibrant coral reefs, our natural heritage provides clean air, fresh water, food security, climate stability and cultural identity. To achieve true sustainability, we must recognise that nature is not just a resource but is also the foundation of life. When ecosystems thrive, they help secure a sustainable future for all. Some of Malaysia's most treasured wildlife includes the Malayan tiger, the Bornean orangutan, Borneo pygmy elephant, Malayan tapir and endangered sea turtles, such as the Green turtle and Hawksbill turtle. These remarkable animals are not only symbols of our national and natural heritage but they are also indicators of the health of our environment. They remind us of the urgent need for conservation. Our biodiversity is under threat. Habitat loss, pollution, unsustainable practices and climate change are pushing species and ecosystems to the brink. World Biodiversity Day was celebrated on May 22 and this year's theme, 'Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development,' reminds us that the health of our planet is inseparable from human progress. It highlights the interconnectedness between the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The message is clear, whereby we cannot achieve sustainable development without protecting biodiversity. Nature supports every aspect of sustainable development, from poverty mitigation and health to economic growth and climate resilience. In recent days, the heart-breaking loss of a baby elephant has sparked widespread concern. The government has also responded and agreed to create more ecological corridors to enable wildlife to move across landscapes, which can thus reduce conflict. These corridors will also benefit many other wildlife species and allow the ecosystem to thrive. These commitments reflect the ambitions of the GBF, particularly Target 2, which aims to restore at least 30% of degraded ecosystems, and Target 9, which focuses on minimising human-wildlife conflict through sustainable solutions. This approach also supports the objectives of SDG 13, which calls for urgent climate action and highlights the importance of ecosystem connectivity and adaptive management to build climate resilience. In addition, it aligns with SDG 15, which promotes the protection, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems to safeguard life on land. Protecting biodiversity is not just about saving wildlife. It is about safeguarding our future. By restoring ecosystems and improving landscape connectivity, we can build a more resilient and sustainable Malaysia for generations to come. All parties, including the private sectors should work together with the government and conservation bodies towards this cause. At WWF-Malaysia, we are committed to solutions that benefit both people and nature. Our living landscape effort integrates tiger conservation, sustainable palm oil, responsible forestry and circular economy innovations, all in close collaboration with communities, businesses and policymakers. Together we are building landscapes where wildlife can thrive and people can prosper. Living in harmony with nature is not just a dream for the future; it is a choice we must make every day. Every action matters, from supporting conservation efforts to embracing sustainable lifestyles. Change begins with us. Let us embrace a future where nature and humanity move forward hand in hand, ensuring a healthier, more resilient planet for generations to come. Because at WWF-Malaysia, we believe it is only 'together possible'. Join us in making a difference. WWF-Malaysia's mission is to stop the degradation of the earth's natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. Comments: letters@
The Sun
16-05-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
Moment stars at USPGA Championship are delayed by a TURTLE as it scampers across green at Quail Hollow
PLAY was temporarily halted at the USPGA Championship after a TURTLE invaded the green. American Ryan Gerard got a shock as he chipped into the 14th at Quail Hollow on Thursday. 2 Gerard saw his approach shot to the green roll away into the bunker. And as TV cameras panned to find his ball, a small head was seen poking out from the grass. Sky Sports commentator Henni Zuel initially thought the animal was a snake. But former PGA champ Rich Beem quipped: "That's a snapping turtle! "That will rip your finger off." Jason Dufner watched on bemused as the turtle began to scamper across the green. It showed off a surprising turn of pace as it made a dash for the water. And the reptile even received a warm round of applause from the watching spectators as it returned to the lake. One fan laughed on X: "Notice he's a lot faster than the golfers." Another wrote: "I love this sport." Turtle pees all over golf course as caddie carries it off the green at Houston Open It's not the first time a turtle has caused carnage on the links this year. During March's Houston Open, a caddie picked up a turtle to remove it from the green. The animal started to urinate an excessive amount of waste while the caddie dashed to move it to a safe distance. It was a day to remember for Jhonattan Vegas on Thursday, with the Venezuelan taking the clubhouse lead in North Carolina. Vegas shot a classy 64, including five birdies on the back nine. He leads by two shots from Gerard and Aussie Cameron Davies.
