Yes, owning a monkey in Malaysia is strictly regulated under wildlife protection laws.
Under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 and the Wildlife Conservation (Protection of Endangered Species) Regulations 2023, most primate species are protected, prohibiting private ownership without authorization. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia (PERHILITAN) enforces these provisions, requiring permits for restricted species. Exotic pet ownership trends, including primates, have prompted stricter 2026 compliance measures under the National Biodiversity Policy 2025, aligning with CITES obligations. Violations risk fines up to RM100,000, imprisonment for five years, or both.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Malaysia
- Permit Requirement: PERHILITAN must approve ownership of non-domesticated primates, such as macaques or slow lorises, under Section 68 of the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. Applications undergo species-specific risk assessments.
- CITES Compliance: Importing or keeping internationally protected species (e.g., orangutans) demands CITES permits, verified by the Malaysian CITES Management Authority under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability.
- Prohibited Species: Native primates like the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) are listed under Schedule II, barring private possession unless for scientific or conservation purposes with explicit approval.