Part 10/13:
Simon adds that community engagement, education, and empowering local women as Rangers can be effective. “Women, in my experience, tend to be less corruptible, more patient and integrity-driven. They can be invaluable assets in surveillance and community outreach,” he explains.
However, resistance remains—some parks and authorities dismiss or block the inclusion of women or community-led initiatives due to entrenched cultural biases.
The Urgency of Saving Iconic Species
The conversation reaches a sobering conclusion as both men point out the alarming decline of species like the Javan rhinoceros, Sumatran tiger, and other critically endangered animals. Simon warns, “Without swift, coordinated action and significant funding, these animals will go extinct in our lifetime.”