“If you want a picture with a turtle, they will bring it up,” M’sian Exposes Snorkeling Operators

Snorkelling is truly a fun activity where you can see the beauty of the sea with your very own eyes.

However, a snorkelling operator in Pulau Perhentian is now WANTED after pictures of this review has surfaced on Twitter.

The review reads:

“So satisfied with their service. I asked for a private boat and got it, asked for a turtle and got it.”

“I want to take a picture with the turtle. Sure.”

“The boatman jumped straight down to get the turtle.”

This review has caused a lot of dissatisfaction among the people as we are actually not allowed to fish, disturb, catch or take a turtle (or turtle eggs) as according to the Malaysian Fisheries Department.

A person who disregards the law will be punishable under the Fisheries Act 1985.

The sea turtle research unit of UMT has also said that if a person encounters a turtle,

“Do not provoke, disturb, harass, catch or restrain the sea turtle for a photo or selfie. Instead, let them roam free, take photos and videos at least 1m away, and enjoy the moment.”

According to most netizens in the Twitter thread, they said that this practice seems to be happening with most snorkelling operators in Malaysia.

We certainly hope that the authorities can look into this as this is certainly not sustainable for our wildlife.

Also read: From Egg Hunter To Protector, Malaysian Battles To Save Turtles