BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: A briefing and dialogue session with residents of Mukim Seria to address the human-crocodile conflict, highlighted several safety measures.
Among them were avoiding river activities at night or during rainy weather, when crocodiles are more active in searching for food; exercising caution around jetties and boat embarkation and disembarkation points; keeping rivers clean and refraining from dumping rubbish into the water to prevent the presence of pest animals that may attract crocodiles as prey; and remaining alert to crocodile warning signs installed by the Forestry Department.
The dialogue held on Saturday (Oct 10) at the Seria branch of the Belait District Office, was part of the Wildlife Division’s efforts to raise public awareness of safety measures to reduce the risk of human-crocodile encounters.
The session was held by the Forestry Department, under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, through its Wildlife Division, in collaboration with the Mukim Consultative Council (MPM) of Mukim Seria to address human-crocodile conflict in the area.
The efforts also include installing crocodile warning signs at identified locations where the reptiles are frequently sighted as a precautionary measure.
Senior Forestry Officer and Head of Pusat Nadi Borneo Zaeidi bin Haji Berudin, Penghulu of Mukim Seria Muhammad Zairul Halfi Talip, Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Bukit Sawat Mohd Salleh Othman, and Legislative Council member and Village Head of Kampong Bukit Sawat Mohammad Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann were present.
In his opening remarks, the penghulu of Mukim Seria emphasised that the issue of human-crocodile conflict is not one that should be taken lightly.
“The presence of crocodiles in waterways frequently used by the public poses risks to public safety and human lives, particularly for those who carry out daily activities such as fishing, casting nets, gathering marine resources and other water-related activities,” he said.
In addressing this issue, he highlighted the importance of understanding that efforts to reduce human-crocodile conflict must be carried out in a planned and systematic manner, based on accurate information and guided by the expertise and advice of the relevant authorities.
“I believe that today’s briefing and discussion provide an excellent platform for us to gain a deeper understanding of crocodile behaviour, high-risk areas, safety measures and the appropriate actions to take in the event of a crocodile sighting or any incident that may threaten public safety,” he said.
He also emphasised that public safety is a shared responsibility, with grassroots leaders playing a vital role in disseminating information, raising public awareness, and ensuring that any crocodile sightings or related incidents are promptly reported to the relevant authorities.
“Members of the public must also remain vigilant, avoid engaging in high-risk activities in areas known to have crocodile activity, and refrain from approaching or attempting to catch crocodiles themselves,” he added. The session continued with a series of talks and dialogues that delved into mitigating human-crocodile conflicts, such as details on the crocodile’s habitat and how they overlap with human activities.
The Forestry Department urged residents to actively cooperate in mitigating human-crocodile conflict by providing accurate and reliable information on crocodile sightings in their surroundings.
Residents were also encouraged to channel information to the agencies involved in the Task Force to facilitate coordination and implementation of planned programmes.
Through the Task Force, comprising the Forestry Department, Fire and Rescue Department, and Royal Brunei Police Force, the department also reminded the public to remain vigilant and prioritise safety when carrying out activities near rivers.
For emergencies, the public is advised to contact the Fire and Rescue Department’s emergency hotline at 995, providing accurate information about the incident.
For reports of crocodile sightings or the presence of crocodiles near residential areas, ponds, and other surroundings, the public may contact the Wildlife Division through the appropriate channels.
These include the department’s hotline during office hours at 2384456 for requests for assistance with crocodile trap cage installation, subject to suitability, or for appropriate advice, or by reaching out via email at info-wildlife@forestry.gov.bn, or on official social media at Forestry.brunei.
Officers and staff from the Forestry Department’s Wildlife Division, representatives from the Fire and Rescue Department and the Royal Brunei Police Force, as well as MPM members, village heads, and residents from across Mukim Seria were also in attendance. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
