Chery Malaysia has strengthened its environmental commitment by supporting efforts to conserve one of Malaysia’s most threatened and lesser-known species — the critically endangered river terrapin.
The initiative saw Chery Malaysia making a contribution to the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS), the country’s first and only NGO dedicated to freshwater turtle conservation. Founded in 2011, TCS has been leading long-term, community-driven programmes to safeguard terrapin populations, particularly in Terengganu.
Vice President of Chery Malaysia, Michael Chew, presented the company’s contribution to TCS co-founder and executive director, Dr. Chen Pelf Nyok, during a recent visit to the society’s conservation centre in Kampung Pasir Gajah, Kemaman.
Through the donation, Chery symbolically adopted 31 terrapins and provided 16 bags of feed to support the animals currently nurtured at the centre. This contribution will directly assist with TCS’ ongoing breeding, habitat protection, and public awareness initiatives.
“The river terrapin is more than just an endangered species — it reflects the health of our rivers and ecosystems. By supporting TCS, we hope to inspire more Malaysians to appreciate and protect this part of our biodiversity,” said Chew.
Dr. Chen expressed her gratitude, saying, “Chery Malaysia’s support ensures we can continue our conservation work and, importantly, raise awareness of a species that many Malaysians may not know about.”
The Southern River Terrapin (Batagur affinis) is one of the rarest freshwater turtle species, found only in Malaysia and Cambodia. In Malaysia, its numbers have dwindled sharply due to habitat degradation, pollution, and illegal egg collection. The Kemaman River remains one of its last strongholds.
Thanks to TCS’ 15-year conservation programme, more than 11,000 eggs have been safeguarded, and nearly 6,000 hatchlings have been released back into the Kemaman River. Terrapins have also been sighted in other states including Kedah, Perak, and Pahang.
River terrapins are vital to river ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as indicators of water quality. Protecting them not only benefits wildlife but also supports local communities, fisheries, and ecotourism.
Chery Malaysia’s partnership with TCS underscores its broader commitment to sustainability and community engagement, ensuring that Malaysia’s natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
