Graphic design by Amanda

It is well-known that Singapore administers strict laws to maintain law and order in the country. So how has Singapore taken its precautions and measurements in keeping this trade and ownership of exotic pets at hand? Besides having the government to instill rules, it has also put in place public education to raise awareness on the issue.

1. Government

The government in Singapore plays a key role against people who illegally keep exotic pets. Under the Wild Animals and Birds Act, it is illegal to keep, trap or kill wild animals without a licence. If found guilty, the individual could face a fine of $1,000 per animal and have their animals confiscated.

If the animals are protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), offenders without a CITES permit can be fined up to $50,000 per specimen (up to $500,000 in total), and/or be jailed for up to two years, or both.

In addition, the government has taken certain measurements such as regulations and investigations to monitor the situation at hand.

 

2. Others

To combat wildlife trafficking, Singapore has also placed measures such as public education and industry engagement. One example is the launch of the “Wild But Not Free” campaign launched by ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) in November 2004.

The aim of the campaign is to assist the AVA (Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority) effort in curbing the illegal exotic pet trade by raising the public’s awareness of this illegal trade and the detrimental effects done to the animals and humans. The campaign placed heavy emphasis on empowering the public to play an active role in stopping the illegal wildlife trade. The campaign was supported by local Singaporean celebrities like Irene Ang and Adrian Pang.

Some events of the campaign included a roadshow that was targeted at schools and young children by introducing informative exhibition panels featuring toy animals representing the wild animals. Along with the roadshows and distribution of flyers to the public, ACRES also used radio, magazine and MRT advertisements to reach out to the wider public.

 

Unfortunately, despite stern laws on paper and heavy fines, raring exotic animals and illegal animal trading are thriving in Singapore.