The dusky langur, a delightful species of monkey found in Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand, is currently facing challenges as it is classified as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List. These charming creatures, weighing around 15 pounds and known for their expressive eyes, are experiencing a decline in their populations, largely due to human development encroaching on their natural habitats.
As urban areas expand into their rainforest homes, these langurs find themselves navigating busy streets, which can be perilous. Traffic accidents, electrocution from power lines, and dangers from being fed inappropriate foods are some of the threats they face.
On the vibrant Penang Island, one of the world’s most densely populated regions, a passionate researcher named Jo Leen Yap recognized the urgent need to help these adorable langurs. As the project executive for Langur Project Penang, her dedication stems from a decade-long journey that began when she was a student. She witnessed langurs bravely attempting to cross treacherous roads by balancing on electrical wires, and it sparked her commitment to their conservation.
Sadly, she often saw these courageous animals meet tragic fates, especially mothers carrying their vulnerable babies. It was a heart-wrenching sight that motivated her to take action.
In many parts of the world, roads pose significant risks to wildlife. Adam Ford, an assistant professor of wildlife restoration and ecology at the University of British Columbia, likened the busy roads in Penang to those in Banff National Park, which had earned the nickname "the meat grinder." Thankfully, in Banff, innovative overpasses and underpasses have been constructed to protect both wildlife and people, leading to a significant reduction in accidents.
Inspired by this success, Dr. Yap set out to create a similar solution for the langurs of Penang. The Langur Project Penang began as a citizen science initiative on Facebook, and as awareness grew, so did the vision for a canopy bridge that could help these monkeys safely navigate their environment.
In 2019, the first bridge was built above one of Penang’s busiest roads, ingeniously constructed from recycled fire hoses generously donated by the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia. Although other materials were considered, the fire hoses proved to be the most durable choice, able to withstand the region's heavy rains and monsoons. After rigorous testing, the bridge was elevated 40 feet above the ground, spanning a 40-foot-wide roadway.
Dr. Yap expressed her hope that the canopy bridge would not only connect fragmented habitats but also serve as a tool for conservation, reducing conflicts between humans and primates. The ultimate aim is to foster harmony between urban wildlife and the human population.
A camera installed on the bridge allows researchers to monitor the local wildlife, studying their behaviors and ensuring their safety. Initially, the langurs were hesitant to use the bridge, but after reinforcing it with additional ropes, it began to resemble a friendly horizontal ladder, encouraging the langurs to cross.
Since the bridge’s installation, there have been no reported mammal fatalities, and over 7,000 wildlife crossings have been documented. This positive outcome has inspired the team to expand their efforts.
Following the success of the initial bridge, the Langur Project Penang is now focused on developing more crossings around the UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve on Penang Island, launching the exciting “Bridge To Coexist” initiative. Their goal is to install three additional canopy bridges by 2026 to further decrease roadkill incidents.
One of these bridges, named “Numi’s Crossing,” was installed in 2024 and represents a beacon of hope and peace. It aims to assist dusky langurs and other treetop animals in crossing roads safely while fostering empathy and compassion between humans and wildlife.
In less than a week after its installation, the dusky langurs made their first crossing, an exhilarating moment for the entire team. They are now focused on planning their next canopy bridge along Batu Ferringhi Road, with hopes to complete it by the end of 2025.
Meanwhile, Dr. Yap and her colleagues are dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of coexistence between humans and wildlife in urban settings. They believe that everyone can contribute to creating safe spaces for both people and animals.
“Dusky langurs live around us, just like other urban wildlife. We are more similar to each other than we think, and we share much more space than you imagine,” Dr. Yap beautifully stated. “Facilitating safe spaces for humans and wildlife in urban areas starts with us. Everyone can help make a positive difference in our society by promoting peaceful coexistence among humans and wildlife.”
The efforts in Penang are a wonderful reminder of how we can work together to build a brighter future for both humans and wildlife, nurturing a world where all living beings can thrive side by side.
