Ecowatch: A leatherback returns – but is it a species comeback?

There is a lot riding on these eggs, with everyone hoping they will hatch successfully and eventually help to kickstart the appearance of leatherback turtles on Malaysian shores once again. — Terengganu Fisheries Department

THE news broke early on the morning of Sept 2, 2026.

A little known NGO had pipped Terengganu’s Fisheries Department to the announcement by blasting out an e-mail to the media: A giant leatherback turtle – known locally as the king of turtles – had returned to Malaysian shores after nine years.