SRI AMAN (Nov 21): Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has launched an investigation following the circulation of a viral video on social media that reportedly showed a whale carcass near Pulau Seduku on Nov 19, despite no evidence it has been found in the area after comprehensive search efforts.
According to SFC, the incident came to light when local fishermen from Sebuyau reported spotting the whale near the Triso-Sebuyau Bridge around 10am during low tide.
“The fishermen promptly shared the video with the Lingga District Officer and acting swiftly, SFC deployed a surveillance team at 7am to search the area from Bakong to Tanjung Bijat.
“At 10am, updated information from Sebuyau fishermen redirected the search to Kuala Triso.
“However, by then, the carcass had drifted further out to sea, making it impossible to locate. Sebuyau Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) joined the effort, arriving at the Triso Ferry Jetty to assist in the search.
“Unfortunately, heavy rain and strong currents prevented their boat from continuing,” said a statement by the corporation today.
Following that, SFC expressed its gratitude to all agencies involved in the operation, including the Lingga District Office, Sebuyau Sub-District Office, Sri Aman Resident’s Office, Museum Department, Lingga Police Station, and Bomba Sebuyau.
The collaborative response demonstrated a coordinated effort to address the situation swiftly and effectively while during a discussion, SFC said that it was agreed that both District Offices will engage local community leaders to monitor and report any future sightings of stranded whales.
“Bomba has also committed to conducting additional surveillance and informing authorities of any stranded whales near beaches or coastal areas.
“Meanwhile, SFC ranger posts in the region will remain on standby to respond immediately to similar incidents,” said the corporation.
SFC thus emphasises the importance of public cooperation in wildlife monitoring and encourages individuals to report any wildlife sightings to their local authorities or directly to the corporation.
The corporation also appreciates the collaborative efforts of local communities, district offices, and Bomba in addressing this incident and ensuring a coordinated response.