Boosting hawksbill turtle nesting with Merambong shrubs

ALOR GAJAH: More Merambong shrubs will be planted along the shoreline to encourage hawksbill sea turtles to land in Malacca, especially in Padang Kemunting, Masjid Tanah.

State Fisheries Department deputy director Nawar Abd Karim said Merambong shrubs would provide comfort to the turtles as they lay their eggs.

“The hawksbill sea turtles are attracted to Merambong shrubs as the marine creatures are able to hide among the vegetation and will not be disturbed, especially when they come ashore to lay eggs,” he said, adding that the shrubs emit a fragrant smell and create a cool environment for the turtles to take shelter.

“A favourite turtle landing spot is along the coast at Alor Gajah, especially in Padang Kemunting, because of the peaceful environment and this is where the Turtle Conservation and Information Centre is located,” he said after closing the Tanjung Bidara Beach Clean Up programme yesterday.

At the event, 300 newly hatched hawksbill turtles were released into the sea, and five Merambong trees were also planted in the area.

Separately, Nawar said as many as 900 hawksbill turtle landings or nestings were recorded along the coastal stretch in Malacca between January and October, each producing an average of 120 to 140 eggs.

“We are seeing an improvement in Malacca due to several factors. Among them are public awareness on the importance of protecting the species and better management in releasing the hatchlings into the sea.

“The death rate of turtle hatchlings or egg thefts were much lower this year because we ensure that only licensed turtle egg collectors appointed by the Malacca Fisheries Department are allowed to gather the eggs.”

He said only 10 egg collectors have been licensed and people who steal, possess or consume the eggs may face legal action.