KUCHING: The public has been urged to exercise greater caution whenever they are near rivers and coastal areas following the recent crocodile attack in Sadong Jaya.
Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said residents, particularly those living in crocodile-infested areas, must remain vigilant when going to rivers or the sea.
“These are animals. They need to live just like us. If we are not careful, they will look at us as food. We have to respect them and be careful,” he said when met by reporters before the D’Drift flag-off at DayakDaily’s office today.
He acknowledged that while authorities may move to track down and remove crocodiles involved in attacks, it is also important to understand the factors behind such incidents, including changes in habitat and food sources.
Abdul Karim noted that crocodile populations in Sarawak have increased significantly over the years.
He said improved road connectivity has reduced river traffic, allowing the reptiles to breed more rapidly without disturbance from boat engines, which previously affected their habitat.
“The population of crocodiles in Sarawak has increased by leaps and bounds,” he said, adding that the state government, through the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), may need to review population control measures to prevent overpopulation.
He pointed out that while crocodile farming has developed into a major industry in countries such as Thailand, where the meat and skin are commercially utilised, Sarawak has yet to explore such large-scale initiatives.
However, he acknowledged that developing the industry locally would not be straightforward, as crocodile meat remains taboo among some native communities.
Abdul Karim reiterated that public safety remains paramount and advised those living near rivers to take extra precautions to avoid further tragedies.
