SFC says SWAT team promptly deployed to Limbang village following croc attack, dismisses claims govt indifferent
MIRI (July 9): The Swift Wildlife Action Team (SWAT) was promptly deployed to Kampung Pandam, Limbang following a report on a crocodile attack yesterday evening, said Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC).
In a statement, SFC said the team was deployed to assist with the search and rescue (SAR) operation and carry out follow-up efforts to track and capture the reptile involved.
'Our utmost priority is public safety. Measures are already in place to mitigate risks in the affected area,' said SFC.
The corporation dismissed allegations from certain quarters that the state government was indifferent to crocodile-related issues, calling such claims baseless.
It stressed SFC has consistently implemented proactive initiatives over the years including crocodile capture operations at identified hotspots, installation of warning signage in high-risk zones, awareness programmes with local communities, and a dedicated hotline for public reports of crocodile sightings.
SFC reminded all parties to refrain from politicising the matter, stating that public safety remains a top priority for the state government and that it remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities.
Based on monitoring and habitat surveys, SFC said the crocodile population in Sarawak is currently around 25,000, spread across more than 4,500km of river systems and 40 major river basins.
'This widespread distribution poses significant challenges, especially for communities living or conducting activities near riverbanks,' SFC said.
To further enhance response and management efforts, SFC has introduced several key initiatives, which include setting up divisional crocodile task forces to coordinate swift responses to crocodile-related incidents.
SFC also launched the Sarawak Croc Watch Mobile App, a real-time platform for the public to report crocodile sightings directly to SFC.
'Additionally, SFC has also issued crocodile hunting and harvesting licences under strict regulations for population control in high-risk areas, based on scientific data as well as establishing Crocodile Removal Zone (CRZ) for targeted removal or relocation of crocodiles,' it said.
As a long-term measure to address the overpopulation of crocodiles in Sarawak, SFC is also developing a long-term management plan with an Australian consultant, incorporating scientific approach, systematic monitoring, and community participation.
'SFC is also drafting the law Crocodile Rule 2025 to enhance governance and crocodile population management including the aspects of monitoring, enforcement, and trade activities,' added the corporation. Kampung Pandam lead limbang SFC SWAT
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