Leatherback makes third Terengganu landing this month, lays 70 eggs

KUALA TERENGGANU — The Department of Fisheries Malaysia has recorded three leatherback turtle landings along the Terengganu coast in September, resulting in the protection of 195 eggs. Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain emphasized the importance of monitoring these landings, protecting the eggs, and enhancing their survival prospects.

The first nesting occurred at Pasir Putih Beach on September 1 with 44 eggs, followed by 81 eggs at Rantau Abang Beach on September 13, and today's third landing at Kuala Abang Beach, where 70 eggs were laid. Conservation officers successfully measured the nesting mother turtle at about 2am, finding it to be 215 centimeters in length and 115 centimeters in width.

All 70 eggs were transferred to the TCIC incubation site at 6am and reburied at a depth of 80 to 100 centimeters to match natural nesting conditions. The incubation period for these eggs is projected to last between 55 and 70 days, with TCIC monitoring nest conditions periodically. Adnan stressed the need for continued conservation efforts, including scientific monitoring, nest management, law enforcement, public awareness, and cooperation from local communities and fishermen.

He urged the public to refrain from disturbing or touching sea turtles coming ashore and to report sightings to the DOF for prompt action. Violations of sea turtle protection laws under the Terengganu Turtle Enactment 1951 (Amendment 2021) can result in fines of RM50,000 to RM250,000 and up to one year of imprisonment. The department also encouraged fishing communities, local residents, and the public to report any sea turtle landings or sightings to aid in timely protection and conservation measures.