The Malayan Tiger: Phantom of the Forest
The Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) is one of the smallest tiger subspecies, yet it is a formidable predator. Native to the dense jungles of Malaysia, this tiger is a master of stealth, blending into the shadows to ambush prey. With fewer than 150 individuals remaining in the wild, the Malayan tiger is critically endangered.
A touching story comes from a female tiger named “Puteri” ("princess" in Malay) in a conservation center. Puteri became a symbol of hope after successfully raising two cubs in captivity — a critical step toward saving her species. Her caretakers observed her teaching the cubs to stalk and pounce, preparing them for a future where they might roam protected forests. Puteri’s resilience inspires efforts to preserve the Malayan tiger’s remaining habitat.