What do you do as a turtle conservationist?
As the Team Leader for WWF-Malaysia’s Terengganu Turtle Conservation, my work broadly involves ensuring our team delivers the project outputs and activities in accordance with the agreed work plan, time frame and within the prescribed budget. We also update our funders regularly either in writing or personally, and sometimes both, on the status of our project.
Turtle conservation in Malaysia from the perspective of the media
As a media practitioner, it is heartening to see that local journalists i.e. those in Terengganu in particular are taking a keen interest on the issue which is at their doorstep.
Myths and famous local stories on turtles
Turtle eggs are notaphrodisiacs. Scientists have analysed the nutrient content of turtle eggs and found them to be no better than chicken eggs.
Are turtles protected by the Malaysian laws?
The Wildlife Protection Act 1972 lists several levels of protection for endangered species of wild animals (mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects), but completely omitted all species of terrapins and tortoises.
Can turtles spread diseases to humans?
If any, it has mostly been through contact with contamination in the water or on the turtle itself. The causative agent is usually Salmonella or E. coli.
