Over the years, it has been apparent that the only way to save the Sumatran rhino is through IVF. BRS is working towards securing the Malaysian government’s support in collaborating with Indonesia to save the species.
YSD’s support for the BRS project has shed light on the importance of the last remaining Sumatran rhinoceri in Malaysia and the Malaysian government has taken notice.
A five-year funding of RM11.9 million has been allocated under the 11th Malaysian Plan from the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry for the ART component of the Project.
YSD has now discontinued its funding of the BRS project to allow for other environment conservation projects which are in critical need of funding.
BRS has also successfully raised the profile of the Sumatran rhinos globally through the release of the National Geographic documentary “Operation Sumatran Rhino: Mission Critical” which follows BORA’s Executive Director Datuk Dr. John Payne and Senior Veterinarian Dr. Zainal Zahari Zainuddin on their adventures and efforts in saving the Sumatran rhinos in Malaysia.
The documentary was aired on National Geographic Wild and National Geographic Channel in conjunction with World Rhino Day in September 2016.
As the project has received funding of RM11.9 million from the Federal Government of Malaysia, YSD ceased its support to the BRS at the end February this year, marking the end of eight years of continuous support from the Foundation. Despite that, the BRS will remain close to our hearts as one of the most significant and crucial environmental initiatives the Foundation had ever supported.