Fossil find in the nick of time

KUALA TERENGGANU: Any paleontologist would say that discovering dinosaur fossils is one of the best moments in his career.

For Prof Dr Mohd Shafea Leman, arriving at that point was a long, tortuous affair.

The Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) paleontologist said that the discovery of the dinosaur fossil at Mount Gagau, Hulu Terengganu was a result of many years of perseverance and personal belief.

“My first expedition to Mount Gagau was in 1997, and after studying the rocks of that mountain, I knew it was very possible for dinosaur fossils to be found there.

“I came back in 2008 and I hoped to find dinosaur fossils, but failed again.

“This is my third expedition and finally, I found dinosaur fossils, proving all along that what I said in 1997 was true,” said Mohd Shafea, describing the moment as a mix of euphoria and relief.

“It was an exciting and proud moment but at the same time, I was relieved as I only have a few years left before retiring.

“I guess you could say I was third time lucky!” he chuckled.

Mohd Shafea said the discovery showed that dinosaurs once roam­­ed Malaysia, and he is optimistic that more remains will be found in the country.

“Hopefully, this would also stir more interest in palaeontology amongst Malaysians.”

Related story:

Tooth and footprints likely from three dino species