Thousands of eggs and animals are lost each year to turtle hunters and the sales of turtle eggs have always been a problem especially in Terengganu.
The Terengganu government is looking into the possibility of banning the sales of all turtle eggs. The sales of these eggs have given Terengganu a bad image.
People have been consuming these eggs because their eggs are considered delicacies, their meat consumed, and their shells used as decorations and fashion accessories.
Dr. Azman Ibrahim, chairman of Agriculture, Agro-based Industry and Rural Development Committee said ‘as stipulated in the Terengganu Turtles Enactment 1951 (Amendment 1987), only the sale of leatherback turtle eggs is prohibited, while the sale of eggs of other turtle species is allowed. This is why we see them being sold in Payang Market’.
He said he received complaints from people who questioned whether the state government has overlooked the enforcement.
Azman said the amendment was done a long time ago and some sections involving fines are not relevant as they are too low.
The state government would also be looking into the need to amend the enactment, especially in relation to fines and penalties for those who committed turtle-related offenses.
What do you think about the Terrenganu Government’s idea? Let us know in the comments below!
Header image: China Daily | WJCT Public Media
Turtle, Eggs, Ban, Terengganu, Illegal, Fines