KUCHING: The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has clarified that the recent viral video circulating on social media on the reported crocodile attacks did not take place in Sarawak but rather in Desa Delas, Air Gegas district in South Bangka Regency (Basel), Indonesia.
In a statement released today, the SFC urged Sarawak residents to refrain from sharing unrelated videos and cautioned social media users to exercise discretion before disseminating specific content.
Expressing concern over the impact of the viral video on public fear and apprehension, the SFC stressed the serious implications of baseless information dissemination, highlighting its potential to affect the local community’s economy.
“SFC takes the recent viral issues regarding crocodile attacks on social media very seriously as the baseless dissemination can affect the local community’s economy.
“SFC is deeply concerned when informed about the existence of dangerous wildlife in specific areas, and we will put up notices about the presence of such wildlife. SFC enforcement officers are always on alert for any action based on information received from the public,” the statement read.
The statement further affirmed that SFC is committed to addressing such concerns by promptly informing the public about the presence of dangerous wildlife in specific areas. The corporation assured constant vigilance through its enforcement officers, who remain on high alert based on information provided by the community.
Simultaneously, the Sarawak Wildlife Controller issued a stern warning against any form of abuse or cruelty towards wild animals, particularly those protected and fully protected in Sarawak.
Referring to Section 44 of the Sarawak Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998, the controller stressed that perpetrators found guilty of such offenses could face imprisonment for six (6) months and a fine of RM2,000.
The public has been encouraged to report any wildlife-related activities or crimes to SFC through designated hotlines: Kuching (019 8859996); Sibu (019 8883561); Bintulu (019 8332737); and. Miri (019 8290994).
Additionally, reports can be filed through the e-complaint system available on the website www.sarawakforestry.com.
