Three leatherback landings in Terengganu a positive sign for conservation

Three leatherback turtles have made landings in Terengganu three times within a month, according to the Fisheries Department, marking a hopeful sign for the conservation of the species. The turtles, believed to be the same individual, first arrived at Rantau Abang and laid 44 eggs. After returning to the same site, they laid an additional 81 eggs. Their most recent visit was to Kuala Abang, where they deposited 70 eggs, resulting in a total of 195 eggs across three nesting attempts.

Adnan Hussain, the Fisheries Department director-general, stated that this development is highly positive for leatherback turtle conservation in the country. He emphasized the importance of not disturbing the turtles and allowing Fisheries Department personnel to manage the eggs effectively. "We hope these eggs will hatch successfully and contribute meaningfully to turtle conservation efforts in the country," Hussain added.

The turtles, known as the world's largest turtle species, were estimated to measure about 2.15 meters in length, a size that stands out as unusually large for the species, which typically averages over one meter in length. The eggs are being protected and managed by the Fisheries Department, with efforts centered on ensuring the turtles can hatch naturally.

The department has also collaborated with Aquawalk Sdn Bhd, Angsana Teluk Bahang, and the Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) to strengthen marine turtle conservation and public education.