Immediate action needed to end crocodile threats in KK waters, urges Warisan

KOTA KINABALU: Immediate action is needed to tackle threats posed by crocodiles along the sea coast of the city here, says Parti Warisan vice-president Datuk Junz Wong.

He said the local authorities should immediately act to mitigate the threat posed by crocodiles amid the frequency of crocodile sightings along Kota Kinabalu’s sea coast.

Wong said a more aggressive and comprehensive strategy was needed to address the threat.

“This includes an immediate increase in patrols and surveillance to track and capture the crocodiles,” he said in a statement Tuesday (May 14).

He said there should be a thorough investigation into the origins of these crocodiles, including identifying potential breeding grounds to prevent further population increases.

Wong said this after Sabah Parks director Dr Maklarin Lakim said they were monitoring crocodile presence in the park over the last few years following the emergence of video clips of the crocodile sighted in waters off the city here.

Wong, who is Tanjung Aru assemblyman, said the safety of tourists and locals must be a priority.

Recent reports confirm that crocodiles had been spotted not only on the shores of Kota Kinabalu but also close to Pulau Gaya, one of the islands under the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park off the city.

“The residents of Pulau Gaya who use boats daily to go to the mainland and back are increasingly at risk.

“This is a ticking time bomb, and our community is deeply concerned,” Wong added.

He said the proximity of the crocodile sightings close to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a popular destination for visitors, raises concern about the lurking danger.

“We must prioritise the safety of our people and the numerous tourists who visit these beautiful shores. The time to act is now, before anything untoward happens,” he said.