Training for Officers Who Enforce Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act and Wildlife Act

72 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for National Development (a) what training is provided to officers involved in the enforcement of the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 2006 and Wildlife Act 1965; and (b) whether they are trained in species identification.

Mr Desmond Lee: The National Parks Board (NParks) carries out regular training for officers involved in the enforcement of the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act (ESA) and the Wildlife Act (WA), to ensure that they are well equipped to take on their responsibilities. The training covers the implementation of CITES provisions and Singapore’s legislative framework, as well as investigative methods, including the identification of wildlife species regulated under ESA and WA.

NParks also leverages science and technology to support officers involved in the enforcement of these Acts and ensures that they are trained in the use of such tools. For instance, our researchers at the Centre for Wildlife Forensics are trained to use molecular methods such as DNA barcoding to aid in species identification.

Lastly, to keep up with developments in the field and to share best practices, NParks officers attend international conferences and workshops, such as those organised by INTERPOL on combatting wildlife crime. These efforts have helped us to strengthen Singapore’s enforcement against wildlife-related offences under ESA and WA.