KOTA KINABALU: Conservation efforts by the Sabah government an local communities are increasing the green turtle population in Sabah, according to Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s Borneo Marine Research Institute (IMB).
"As a result of these initiatives, the green turtle population has increased, with its global status improving from 'endangered' to 'least concern'," IMB (Academic and International) deputy dean Associate Prof Dr Juanita Joseph said in a statement on Tuesday (May 26).
The statement was issued in conjunction with World Turtle Day, which is observed on May 23 each year.
"However, the hawksbill sea turtle remains critically endangered and at risk of extinction if protection measures are not reinforced.
"Similarly, the olive ridley turtle is categorised as vulnerable, while the leatherback turtle also faces threats to survival," she added.
She said the university continues to play a key role as a regional reference centre for turtle conservation, particularly through research, teaching and advisory services to ministries and the state government.
According to her, the main threats to turtle species involve disruptions to their nesting and feeding grounds, poaching and pollution.
"Theft of turtle eggs for sale and consumption still occurs at nesting sites, while at feeding grounds, turtles are sometimes killed by foreign fishermen to get materials for accessories and souvenirs," she said.
"In addition, marine pollution in the open sea greatly impacts turtle habitats, but international restrictions limit access to open waters for monitoring purposes," she added.
The government has also introduced turtle excluder devices (TEDs), special tools that allow large marine animals to escape from fishing nets.
The initiative, implemented by the Fisheries Department in collaboration with NGOs, is still at the trial stage in Sabah.
Prof Juanita said UMS, through its research and international cooperation, also advises on turtle egg conservation by participating in the Indo-Pacific Marine Turtle Genetic Programme.
UMS has also represented Malaysia as an advisor in the Turtle Island Heritage Protected Area since 2018.
"UMS must not only conduct research but also engage more closely with communities so that turtle conservation efforts can be carried out effectively.
"Collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies and the community is crucial to ensure the survival of turtle species for future generations," Prof Juanita said.
