Otters attack, to be deliberated on

14 September 2024

KOTA KINABALU: There will be a discussion on the future of the otters that were recently involved in an attack on a jogger at Perdana Park in Tanjung Aru.

Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew announced that she will be meeting with the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) to discuss whether action is necessary, including the potential relocation of a family of otters.

There are currently many otters in the area, and their population is growing rapidly, she said adding that relocation may be necessary, but it won't be an easy task, she told reporters at a press conference for the national-level Malaysia Day celebration.

Liew emphasised that relocating wildlife is both costly and requires specialised expertise—not only for the relocation itself but also for assessing the suitability of a new habitat.

“That’s why I need to meet with the SWD director to discuss this matter further,” she added.

In light of the attack last Wednesday, the recreational park was temporarily closed to visitors while safety measures were implemented.

One of the victims, 40-year-old Mariasella Harun, sustained deep cuts across her body during a morning jog at 6:30am. Two other joggers who attempted to assist her were also injured in the attack.

Sabah Wildlife Department director Roland Niun stated that this was the first reported otter attack in Sabah, noting that it is unusual for these generally harmless animals to exhibit aggressive behavior. However, he explained that otters can become hostile when they feel threatened or provoked.

Otters, classified as protected wildlife under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, have recently been spotted in several recreational parks throughout the city, particularly those near rivers and lakes.