Sea Turtle Harassment contradict marine conservation principles

15 March 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment of Sabah is taking the recent viral incident involving the harassment of sea turtles at Pulau Manukan very seriously.

The actions of the individuals featured in the video are deemed irresponsible and directly contradict the principles of marine conservation upheld by the Sabah State Government.

In response, the Ministry, through Sabah Parks, has taken decisive action under the Parks Enactment 1984 (Amendment 2024) by issuing compound notices to the five individuals involved in the incident, as well as to the company responsible.

The Ministry urges all tourism operators to play a more responsible and conscientious role in ensuring that both tourists and their staff comply with the established guidelines and regulations.

Awareness and adherence to these regulations are crucial to preserving Sabah’s marine ecosystem for future generations.

The Sabah State Government remains committed to environmental conservation and will not compromise with any party that violates wildlife and natural ecosystem laws, whether within or outside designated park areas.