Associate Professor Dr. Chong Ju Lian is a dedicated conservationist, researcher, and advocate committed to protecting Malaysia’s wildlife, particularly the Critically Endangered Sunda pangolin. As a lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, she has been instrumental in raising awareness about pangolin conservation both locally and internationally.

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Growing up in a modest household in the 1980s, with limited access to resources, Dr Chong Ju Lian relied on television documentaries and voracious reading to fuel a lifelong passion for wildlife.

Although initially aspiring to become a veterinarian, Dr Chong Ju Lian’s academic path led to a Bachelor's degree in Zoology, where she graduated with First Class Honours from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). Later, she pursued a PhD, mastering advanced molecular techniques while studying the population structure of a problematic agricultural weed. Although the topic was not animal-focused, the expertise gained would later prove invaluable in wildlife conservation.

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In 2006, during the final stages of PhD research, Dr Chong Ju Lian was captivated by media reports about the tragic plight of the Sunda pangolin, heavily trafficked for its scales and meat. The discovery sparked a deep commitment to the species’ survival. Upon starting a lecturer position at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Dr Chong Ju Lian successfully secured funding to pioneer Malaysia’s first ecological and biological studies on this elusive animal, encompassing Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak

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Advocate, Educator, and Policy Influencer

 

With a Master's degree in Conservation Biology and Conservation Genetics from Universiti Malaysia Sabah, a PhD in Biosciences from Cardiff University, and funding from institutions like the Darwin Initiative and Houston Zoo, Dr Chong Ju Lian has developed expertise in wildlife genetics, behavior, and ecology. Participation in elite programs like the Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leadership Program and specialized training in conservation planning further honed her skills to address complex conservation challenges.

 

 

Dr. Chong’s work has significantly influenced policy changes, including the successful uplisting of pangolins to Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). This critical shift banned commercial trade in pangolins, helping curb the illegal trafficking that has heavily impacted populations in Malaysia and beyond.

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Since 2008, she has pioneered research on pangolin ecology, biology, and genetics, contributing valuable scientific knowledge to conservation efforts. Beyond research, she has played a key role in public awareness initiatives, engaging in talks, publications, and social media campaigns to highlight the plight of the Sunda pangolin. Her dedication has earned her a leadership role as Co-Chair for Southeast Asia in the IUCN SSC Pangolin Specialist Group, where she continues to shape global conservation strategies.

In addition to her research and advocacy, Dr. Chong is deeply involved in Malaysia’s conservation community. She currently serves as the Honorary Secretary (2024-2026) of the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), the country’s oldest homegrown environmental NGO. Her commitment extends to collaborating with researchers, NGOs, government agencies, and local communities, fostering partnerships to promote sustainable conservation practices and protect Malaysia’s rich wildlife heritage, especially the Sunda pangolin.

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Through her tireless efforts, Dr. Chong continues to drive meaningful change in pangolin conservation and wildlife protection, ensuring that Malaysia’s biodiversity remains safeguarded for future generations.

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