Protecting Asian Cats from Trafficking and Trade (PACT) by TRAFFIC Southeast Asia

Asian wildcats, such as tigers, leopards, and clouded leopards, are threatened by poaching and illegal trade. Despite ongoing efforts to protect them, populations of these species continue to decline due to rampant trafficking of their body parts. To enhance their protection, particularly in Malaysia, TRAFFIC Southeast Asia has launched the PACT project to strengthen enforcement agencies' and prosecutors' capacity to combat wildlife crime.

To support TRAFFIC Southeast Asia, SWAG has launched the SWAG PACT fundraising campaign to raise critical amounts for the project and has pledged to match donations dollar-for-dollar up to S$20,000.

About PACT

Objectives: 

1. Conduct a comprehensive analysis of crime involving Asian cat species in trade and trafficking.

2. Provide training and capacity-building programs for enforcement agencies and prosecutors.

3. Advocate for policy changes and stronger laws to protect Asian cat species.

Methodology:

1. Crime analysis: Study patterns in wildlife crimes, identify trafficking routes, and track the flow of illegal wildlife products.

2. Training and capacity building: Conduct workshops on investigations and prosecutions for law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and wildlife protection officers.

3. Policy and advocacy: Engage with governments, international organizations, and the private sector to advocate for stronger laws and policies.

Expected Outputs:

1. An in-depth Asia-wide assessment of Asian cats impacted by illegal trade and trafficking.

2. Training tools and resources for government capacity building.

3. Impact statements for species affected by poaching and illegal trade.

4. Media and public outreach.

By supporting the PACT project, we can work together to protect Asian wildcat species and combat wildlife crime in Southeast Asia.