Screenshots from the video that went viral showing the three individuals harassing a turtle. (Inset) Pahang Fisheries Department director Roslan Abu Hasan.
THE protection of endangered species is a crucial responsibility.
Recently, an incident involving three unidentified individuals disturbing a turtle at the Turtle Landing Beach, part of the Turtle Conservation and Information Centre in Cherating, Pahang, sparked outrage.
Could it be true that this group was filmed harassing a turtle as it attempted to nest?
Verdict:
TRUE
A 51-year-old Cherating man, had been arrested for allegedly disturbing a turtle attempting to nest at the Turtle Conservation and Information Centre on Saturday (July 26).
The suspect was detained around 1pm on Monday (July 28) in the Cherating area, and police are searching for two more suspects believed to be involved in the incident.
Acting Kuantan OCPD Supt Mohd Adli Mat Daud said that the suspect was believed to have disturbed the turtle to expedite the egg-laying process for illegal sale or use.
A video of the incident has since gone viral online.
The Pahang Fisheries Department expressed deep regret over the actions of these individuals, which occurred on Saturday at approximately 6.45am.
Roslan Abu Hasan, the director of the department, condemned the actions as irresponsible.
"We are deeply saddened by this inhumane act," Roslan told Sinar Harian.
He highlighted that turtles are protected under the Fisheries Act 1985, and such incidents reflect a lack of awareness about the importance of preserving increasingly threatened marine species.
Roslan emphasised that anyone found disturbing, capturing, or destroying turtle habitats could face strict penalties under the Fisheries Act 1985, which imposes fines ranging from RM500 to RM20,000.
Continuous monitoring is being conducted at key turtle landing sites in the state, including Tioman Island, Kuala Rompin, Cherating Beach, and Tanjung Batu Nenasi in Pekan.
In a call to action, Roslan urged local communities and tourism operators to play a role in protecting turtles.
"We are all responsible for preserving the state's marine resources. Report any suspicious activities immediately to ensure these turtles remain safe and continue to land in our waters," he stated.
Roslan reaffirmed the department's commitment to turtle conservation and ongoing public education and awareness activities.
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