By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Nov 20: Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan has today claimed that a crocodile’s instinct to hunt isn’t driven by hunger — it’s simply to kill.
Speaking at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS), Awang Tengah addressed a common misconception that crocodiles are becoming more aggressive because of a lack of food.
“During a study visit to Australia, the experts explained that crocodiles can survive without food for six months up to a year.
“Their instinct is just to kill. So, don’t ever trust crocodiles,” he said, drawing hearty laughter in the august House.
Awang Tengah mentioned that Sarawak is taking a cue from Australia’s successful strategies to address human-crocodile conflicts with the launch of the ‘Sarawak CrocWatch’ mobile app.
Developed by Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) in collaboration with Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS), the mobile app introduced in September 2024, allows the public to report crocodile sightings directly to enforcement officers, ensuring swift action to safeguard public safety.
He added that there is an estimated population of approximately 25,000 crocodiles across 22 river basins in Sarawak.
Among the initiatives undertaken and ongoing include monitoring and relocation efforts, development of a comprehensive crocodile management plan with a preliminary report to be submitted in December 2024, and drafting of Crocodile Rules which is currently under final review before being submitted to the Sarawak Cabinet for approval. — DayakDaily
