KUCHING (Sept 10): The Sarawak government is calling for a more proactive approach to crocodile management, stressing the need to strike a balance between public safety, economic opportunities, and ecological sustainability.
Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the state's successful effort to downgrade crocodiles from Appendix I to Appendix II under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance had opened the door for commercial use.
Appendix I lists endangered species that cannot be traded, while Appendix II allows trade under strict guidelines.
This change created opportunities for the use of crocodile by-products such as meat, skin, and trade credits, he explained.
Permits have since been issued to interested parties, but Len noted that most remain inactive.
"Very few have been active in pursuing this, and only one or two companies are actually involved in removals. Action is usually taken only after incidents occur," he said, responding to public concern over viral social media posts of crocodile sightings.
According to Len, Sarawak has already approved an integrated crocodile management plan focusing on the removal of reptiles from high-risk areas such as longhouses, villages, and riverside communities.
Depending on circumstances, crocodiles may be relocated or culled.
He cautioned, however, against widespread culling.
Crocodiles play a critical role in maintaining ecosystem balance, he said, adding that awareness programmes and warning signage are also being expanded to reduce risks.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development, has proposed population control through egg removal, Len added.
"A single crocodile can lay between 80 to 200 eggs. By removing eggs from nesting areas, or encouraging natural predators such as monitor lizards, we can adopt a nature-based solution to population growth," he said.
He also revealed that several sites have been earmarked as crocodile sanctuaries, including Kuching Wildlife Centre, Pulau Seduku in Simanggang, Rajang mangrove areas in Sibu, and Limbang.
"The government stressed that while crocodile killings are not completely prohibited, proper controls must be observed.
"People cannot simply kill crocodiles at will. They are part of our ecosystem, and managing them responsibly is the only way to safeguard both communities and biodiversity," said Len.