The green turtle makes its way to freedom.
Sarawak Forestry personnel measure the turtle.
BINTULU: A green turtle which had become entangled in a fishing net here was rescued on March 10 and subsequently released back to sea at Similajau National Park.
A press statement from the office of Sarawak Forestry’s chief executive officer said the turtle was still a juvenile, as it measured only 42cm long by 36cm wide.
Green sea turtles or Chelonia mydas is one of the world’s most endangered species due to their slow rate of reproduction, besides being highly prized for their meat and eggs, and as such is totally protected in Sarawak.
“It is precisely to prevent this type of incident that we launched the MLNG Sarawak Forestry Beacon Reef Ball Project, under which more than 1,000 reef balls have been deployed in Similajau waters, with another 500 to be deployed this year.
“Reef balls protect sea turtles and other marine mammals by destroying fishing nets and thus deter fishing trawlers from encroaching into their habitats,” said the statement.
Sarawak Forestry also runs the Sea Turtles Adoption and Conservation Programme, which aims to create awareness among the public on the importance of sea turtles conservation.
This programme offers volunteers a hands-on experience in sea turtle conservation work while guided by a team of dedicated professionals at Sarawak’s Turtle Island – Talang Satang National Park.
For more information on this programme, please contact Sarawak Forestry at info@sarawakforestry.com.