Chery Malaysia Lends A Hand To Protect Endangered River Terrapins

Chery Malaysia is making waves beyond the automotive world by supporting the conservation of Malaysia’s critically endangered river terrapins.

Through a donation to the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS), the company is contributing to programmes that protect the Southern River Terrapin (Batagur affinis), a freshwater species found only in Malaysia and Cambodia. The Kemaman river in Terengganu remains one of the few habitats where these turtles still survive, though pollution, habitat loss, and illegal egg collection have left their populations perilously low and close to extinction. 

During a recent visit to TCS in Kampung Pasir Gajah, Chery Malaysia symbolically adopted 31 terrapins and funded the purchase of 16 bags of 20 kg feed pellets for the turtles raised at the centre. This support will help sustain ongoing conservation activities and raise awareness of the species’ plight.

“Preserving Malaysia’s natural heritage is as important as driving progress on the road,” said Michael Chew, Vice President of Chery Malaysia. “The river terrapin is a living symbol of the health of our rivers. By supporting TCS, we hope to inspire more Malaysians of all ages to appreciate and protect this unique part of our biodiversity.”

Dr. Chen Pelf Nyok, Co-founder and Executive Director of TCS, expressed gratitude for Chery Malaysia’s support. “We are grateful to Chery Malaysia for recognising the importance of protecting our river terrapins. This partnership not only helps us sustain our conservation work but also raises national awareness of a species that is often overlooked,” she said. 

Since its founding in 2011, TCS has saved more than 11,000 terrapin eggs and released close to 6,000 turtles back into the Kemaman River. The organisation combines scientific research, breeding, habitat protection, and community engagement to ensure these terrapins thrive, with sightings now reported in rivers across Kedah, Perak, and Pahang as well. TCS is the nation’s first and only NGO dedicated exclusively to freshwater turtle conservation.

River terrapins play a vital role in maintaining healthy river ecosystems, from nutrient cycling to serving as indicators of water quality. Protecting them benefits wildlife, local communities, fisheries, and even ecotourism.

Chery Malaysia’s support reflects its commitment to sustainability, environmental protection, and community engagement, helping ensure that future generations inherit a rich and thriving natural heritage.

For more information on TCS: https://www.turtleconservationsociety.org.my/