Page 11 - Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Biodiversity _Brochure 2022

11 Bachelor of Science in Ecology

and Biodiversity

INTERNSHIP

Muhammad Irsyad bin Mohd Pishal

Non-governmental organisation (NGO)
WWF-Malaysia
The internship module of this program enabled me

to learn how to identify species, ecological roles
and functioning, and statistical software for data
analysis. In lab practicals, I was shown how to
dissect specimens and study their anatomy. I was
exposed to current and historical conservation
issues, alongside their management. This included
recognising the importance of stakeholders’ rights
when such measures are implemented; their
effects on different communities linked with the
environment.

Coursework involved group tasks which necessitated teamwork. Hence, I acquired
effective communication and time management skills. I applied the knowledge gained
during lectures when I had to identify shark, ray and turtle species appearing in

underwater footage as well as those sold in Malaysian markets using identification guides
and research papers. Later, I applied these skills during fieldwork with universities
collaborating with WWF for shark and ray research, where I identified all shark and ray
species on-site appearing in local landing sites and markets.

I was given the opportunity to process shark and ray specimens collected from landing
sites and markets for study. My previous experience in lab practicals helped immensely in
recognising and extracting specific parts of their anatomy.

I interviewed fishers to get an idea of the presence of rare endangered species as well as
the threats they face. The socio-economic complexity accompanying ecological issues that
I was taught in class indeed opened my mind to understanding the problems different
parties may face when introducing conservation measures – not only from a wildlife
perspective.