Dr Andi says Sabah’s approach was tailored to its geography and distribution of conflict areas.
KOTA KINABALU (July 23): Sabah is adopting a flexible, science-based approach to managing human-crocodile conflict instead of establishing permanent river patrol units, said State Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal.
He said the state government, through the ministry and Sabah Wildlife Department, implements both immediate response measures in high-risk areas and long-term strategies based on risk management and inter-agency cooperation.
Responding to Datuk Junz Wong (Warisan-Tanjung Aru), who asked whether Sabah would consider forming a dedicated crocodile-catching unit similar to Sarawak’s river-based teams, Dr Andi said Sabah’s approach was tailored to its geography and distribution of conflict areas.
He explained that Sabah’s extensive network of rivers, estuaries and coastal areas required a more integrated and mobile approach, with personnel and resources deployed according to operational needs rather than fixed locations.
“Sabah implements a coordinated approach that enables expertise and manpower to be mobilised flexibly according to the situation,” he said.
Since 2023, Sabah has strengthened its mitigation efforts through the establishment of the Sabah State Crocodile Mitigation Operations Committee, chaired by the State Affairs Office Secretary.
The committee coordinates operations, intelligence sharing and rapid response efforts involving the Sabah Wildlife Department, police and other relevant agencies.
Measures implemented include joint operations, risk-based crocodile management in accordance with wildlife laws, public awareness programmes, installation of warning signage, and technical collaboration with experts to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Looking ahead, Dr Andi said the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) would emphasise holistic wildlife conflict management involving not only crocodiles but also elephants, monkeys and other species.
The approach would include continuous monitoring, scientific research, community involvement and strengthening the capacity of implementing agencies.
“The state government will continue to enhance human-crocodile conflict management through science-based approaches, effective operations and close cooperation among agencies and communities to ensure public safety while preserving Sabah’s biodiversity,” he added.
Meanwhile, Datuk Jaujan Sambakong (Warisan-Sulabayan) proposed the establishment of a crocodile museum and commercial crocodile farming for meat and leather, while suggesting that wild crocodiles should not be culled.
In response, Dr Andi said controlled hunting could be allowed in identified areas where population reduction was necessary, subject to existing laws and approvals.
He said while there was potential for crocodile meat in the market, it had yet to gain significant traction locally due to cultural factors.
Dr Andi added that the ministry welcomed the proposal for a crocodile museum and would study the idea, while also considering the establishment of sanctuaries as an alternative to conventional zoos by allowing animals to remain in more natural habitats.