LUNDU: The Sarawak government has been urged to tackle the increasing crocodile population, which has led to crocodile attacks and sightings in non-habitat areas.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said crocodiles are now being found in urban areas such as Kuching Waterfront and residential drainage systems.
She hoped that the government can find the best way to tackle the issue.
“I believe that the Sarawak government has always had its own methods to address this issue, even since the time of the late Chief Minister Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
“These crocodiles are becoming bolder and entering urban areas, possibly due to population growth and other factors.
“Therefore, I hope that the Sarawak government will take the best course of action in addressing this problem,” she said.
She told reporters this after visiting the Search and Rescue (SAR) operation for the crocodile victim at Kampung Sungai Rayu here today.
Meanwhile, Nancy, who is the Santubong MP, assured that welfare aid would be distributed to the victim’s family once the victim was found.
She said special provisions for wild animal victims are already included in the Welfare Department’s policy.
“We have provided assistance earlier to help them (the victim’s family) prepare food and drinks throughout the SAR operation.
“The Welfare Department will always assist those involved in tragedies like this by providing special provisions.
“We are very comprehensive, but we need to wait until the victim is found,” she added.
Acknowledging that it was not her place to advise given that local residents are more familiar with their own areas, she advised residents living near rivers or areas with potential reptile presence be cautious.
“Who am I to advise those who are more familiar with this area? They know this area better. Therefore, I believe they have an instinct that tells them if there are crocodiles in that place, it should be avoided,” she said.
