KUCHING: Five sites across Sarawak have been identified for crocodile sanctuaries to manage human-crocodile conflicts while promoting ecotourism.
Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Deputy Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the proposed locations are Kuching Wetlands National Park, Pulau Seduku, Rajang National Park, Sibuti, and either Lawas or Limbang.
“These are areas where we can safely remove crocodiles from zones where they may pose a danger to people.
“In Sarawak, rivers are still essential for daily life and livelihoods, unlike in countries like Australia where they’re used mainly for leisure. That’s why we must find a balance between crocodile conservation and human safety,” he said.
He said this during a press conference after officiating at a tree-planting programme held in conjunction with the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem at Lemidin River, Kuching Wetland National Park today (July 28).
He said the Kuching Wetlands National Park sanctuary is under assessment and will serve as the main centre with five core objectives, namely crocodile relocation, tourism, research and development, education, and community engagement.
“Other sites will be for crocodile removal only, with minimal facilities, just a fenced area. So yes, they can be implemented simultaneously without needing to transport crocodiles to Kuching,” he explained.
He said the proposed Kuching site will cover about 100 acres and be fully fenced for safety, divided into a conservation zone for visitors and a natural habitat area where crocodiles can roam.
“If it’s too small, it wouldn’t be ideal. The area must resemble their natural habitat. We’ll conduct community engagement first to address any local concerns. People living nearby may object, so we must explain the purpose and safety measures,” he said.
On the project timeline, he said the sanctuary would be implemented as soon as possible.
“The urgency has increased in recent years. We already have the green light from the government and funds set aside,” he noted.
