“Turtles Are Healthy” – Fisheries Dept Completes Investigation Into Dirty Tank & Water Claims In Port Dickson Resort

Source: The Rakyat Post

A recent incident involving turtles allegedly kept in unsanitary conditions at a Port Dickson resort has sparked outrage among netizens. A Twitter user, Encik Perasaan (@eeeooonnneee), shared photos showing a turtle swimming in what appeared to be a filthy and smelly water tank. The user claimed that the turtle had no fixed resting place, continuously swimming in circles in a cramped environment.

The controversy escalated when another person, who visited the resort later, confirmed that while the water appeared clean during their visit, the tank was still too small for three turtles living in it. This raised concerns about the welfare of the turtles and led to calls for a formal investigation from authorities, including the Fisheries Department and the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan).

Fisheries Department Responds

Following the viral post, the Negeri Sembilan Fisheries Department conducted an investigation on November 7, 2024, to assess the situation. The department confirmed that the turtles were healthy, swimming actively, and showing no signs of distress. According to state director Kasim Tawe, the water in the tank was clean, and there was no smell as had been claimed. The water was changed weekly using seawater, in line with the natural tides.

However, the department acknowledged that the murky appearance of the water was due to the small pump (0.5hp) used to channel the water into the tank. The department recommended upgrading the pump to a higher capacity (between 2-3hp) to improve water filtration, as well as expanding the tank to give the turtles more space.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts & Questions Remain

While the Fisheries Department assured the public that the turtles are in good health, the controversy raised important questions about the facility’s ability to meet the turtles’ needs. The department suggested extending the pipe a further hundred meters into the sea to provide fresher water. This recommendation has left some critics wondering if this is enough to ensure the turtles’ well-being in the long term.

Moreover, the resort, known for its turtle hatchery, has been praised for its involvement in turtle conservation efforts. The three turtles in question were 4.5 years old, previously part of a marine sanctuary and were transferred to the resort in connection with World Ocean Day 2023. Despite their involvement in conservation programs, some argue that the space they are kept in should be expanded to ensure their quality of life.

Apology & Clarification From Resort’s Caretaker

Hishamudin Abd Manap, a licensed turtle egg collector with 15 years of experience, is responsible for caring for the turtles. He works closely with the resort to oversee turtle conservation programs. Hishamudin stated that the resort had not received any complaints before the viral post and assured the public that proper care was being given to the turtles.

Mixed Reactions

While the Fisheries Department maintains that the turtles are healthy and will continue to monitor their condition, many netizens remain skeptical. They question whether the resort’s efforts truly reflect the best interests of the turtles or if the issues raised should prompt more comprehensive changes.The Fisheries Department confirmed that the three turtles will be released back into the wild by next year, but until then, the public is encouraged to visit the resort to see the turtles up close before their release.