Peninsular Malaysia hosts a remarkable biodiversity that is under serious threat since the colonial era. Historical sources show that concerned citizens played an important role in maintaining this heritage. Founded in 1940 by British colonists just before the outbreak of World War II, the Malayan Nature Society remained a British dominated organisation during the first decades of its existence. Very few Asians were members. However, these few individuals who, for the most part, came from the upper classes, became very influential after Independence. They supported the actions of the Administration, especially the Game Department, in favour of the protection of the wild fauna and flora of Malaysia and the management of its parks and reserves. The Society was instrumental in creating awareness among the people of Malaysia, especially the most educated ones. It also stood at the centre of a network that connected conservationists, scientists, Game Wardens and decision makers. This network of institutions and individuals allowed Malaysia to pursue a conservation agenda and to develop its own tools and policy to protect endangered species and locations of exceptional value in terms of biodiversity.