Leatherback landings yield 195 eggs

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Three leatherback turtles laid a total of 195 eggs in Terengganu this month, all of which have been relocated to a protected incubation site to improve hatching success. These conservation efforts aim to bolster the endangered turtle population amid threats from habitat loss and illegal activities, with authorities emphasizing community cooperation and strict legal protections.

KUALA TERENGGANU — Three leatherback turtle landings in Terengganu this month have yielded a total of 195 eggs, according to Datuk Adnan Hussain, director-general of the Fisheries Department. The landings were recorded by the Rantau Abang Turtle and Marine Ecosystem Centre (TCIC), with all eggs relocated to a controlled incubation site to enhance their protection and boost hatching success rates.

The first nesting was documented on September 1 at Pasir Putih, Marang, where 44 eggs were laid. This was followed by a second event on September 13 at Rantau Abang, involving 81 eggs. The most recent landing occurred on September 22 at Kuala Abang, producing 70 eggs. The female turtle from this latest event measured 215 centimeters in carapace length and 115 centimeters in width.

All 70 eggs from the latest nesting were transferred to the TCIC incubation site and reburied at a depth of 80 to 100 centimeters, a measure intended to replicate natural nesting conditions. The incubation period is expected to last between 55 and 70 days, depending on sand temperature. TCIC staff will monitor the nests regularly to ensure optimal conditions are maintained.

Datuk Adnan highlighted the importance of continued conservation efforts to safeguard the leatherback turtle population. These efforts include scientific monitoring, nest management, law enforcement, and public education. He emphasized that cooperation from local communities and fishermen remains vital to these initiatives' success.

The public has been urged not to disturb or handle sea turtles coming ashore and to report any sightings to the relevant authorities promptly. Under the Terengganu Turtle Enactment 1951 (Amendment 2021), it is illegal to possess, sell, or interfere with sea turtle eggs. Violations can result in fines ranging from RM50,000 to RM250,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

These measures reflect ongoing efforts by state and conservation bodies to protect the endangered leatherback turtle, whose populations face threats from habitat loss, illegal egg collection, and other human activities. The Fisheries Department and TCIC continue to work collaboratively to enhance survival rates and ensure the species' long-term viability in the region.

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