Kuala Lampur, April 22 -- Nestled in Malaysia's lush rainforests is a true gem - the Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus). It is the largest of the five extant tapir species, and the only one native to Asia. It has a large, flexible proboscis, which it uses to grasp vegetation.

The species' characteristic black and white colouration is thought to help break up its outline in the dense forest undergrowth, aiding in camouflage, a survival mechanism that is becoming increasingly useless as its habitat disappears. Its solitary nature and nocturnal habits make it difficult to study, contributing to gaps in our understanding of its behaviours and needs.

This gentle creature is a symbol of the incredible biodiversity that thrives across the country...