Sabah Wildlife Dept investigating claim turtle eggs served at CNY dinner

 

The Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) is investigating claims that turtle eggs were served at a Chinese New Year reunion dinner of the brother of a former state assemblyperson, said Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Jafry Ariffin today.

Knowing that SWD is faced with the challenge of investigating the claims based only on photos posted on social media, Jafry said he instructed the department to leave no stones unturned in the investigation.

“Firm action needs to be taken on this matter and we want to ensure those involved will be brought forward and receive the appropriate punishment.

“It is our duty and responsibility as Sabahans to protect and conserve Sabah’s critically endangered wildlife from extinction so our future generation can enjoy their beauty and importance to the ecosystem forever,” he said.

Jafry was speaking to reporters after handing food baskets to residents of 15 villages in Sukau affected by the movement control order today.

He also instructed the SWD to look out for the illegal sale of turtle eggs, especially in some areas in Sandakan.

The photos of turtle eggs allegedly being served at the dinner were circulated on social media and criticised by the public, especially wildlife conservationists.

The offence of possessing protected wildlife under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997 carries a punishment of a RM50,000 fine, five-year imprisonment, or both if convicted.

On the mysterious deaths of some 30 Bornean bearded pigs in several areas on Sabah’s east coast recently, Jafry said the State Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) was still investigating the cause of deaths.

DVS learned of the case on Jan 28 during an online meeting with SWD and immediately organised a team with the Danau Girang Field Centre to investigate.

- Bernama