In 1958, the then Game Department in the state of Perak were responsible for protecting wildlife and answering calls for assistance to protect crops, property and lives threatened by these animals. It was a time of plenty, with forest cover of more than 75 percent.

Unfortunately, those forests were rapidly being cleared, causing wildlife species to become homeless. Moreover, solving problems often resulted in the killings of these animals. Hunting licenses were introduced, accounting for large numbers of sambar and barking deer being killed. This slaughter continued for decades, leading to a decline in the numbers of several large animal species. Due to rampant hunting, poaching, and the loss of about 30 percent of the forest species that were once common are now in dire need of saving from further decline. The need to step up conservation efforts has reached an alarming level, requiring prompt action to ensure population recovery.