False killer whale dies after second stranding at Pueh Beach in Sematan

An SFC officer examining the false killer whale that was stranded on Pueh Beach, Sematan, on Oct 3, 2026. Source: SFC/Facebook

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 4: A false killer whale that was rescued and released back into the sea after stranding at Pueh Beach, Sematan, has died after washing ashore again.

In a statement posted on Facebook on Oct 3, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) said the adult female marine mammal was initially stranded and released back into the sea with assistance from the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and members of the public.

“The immediate action taken to release the marine mammal back into the sea is greatly appreciated and reflects the high level of awareness and cooperation among the relevant agencies and members of the public in efforts to conserve wildlife in Sarawak,” said the statement.

However, SFC received information from local fishermen that the marine mammal had become stranded again at the Pueh Youth Camp Beach area. The animal was found to be in a weak condition and eventually died.

Following the incident, SFC followed standard operating procedures for stranded marine animals, including a necropsy examination of the carcass; the animal measured 3.85 metres in length and had a body girth of 1.77 metres.

Biometric specimens were also collected for the DNA database for future reference during the operation, which involved nine SFC personnel and was assisted by six residents of Kampung Pueh.

Further examination found shark bite marks on the animal’s body. The stomach contents were very minimal and mixed with sand, indicating that the animal may not have been able to obtain sufficient food before becoming stranded.

“Based on the necropsy findings, the animal’s death is believed to have been associated with complications arising from the stranding, including possible circulatory system failure caused by heat stress or heat stroke,” said the SFC.

All species of marine mammals—including dolphins, whales, and dugongs—are classified as Fully Protected Animals under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998.

Therefore, SFC urges the public not to handle any stranded, injured or dead wildlife on their own. Instead, members of the public should immediately report such incidents to SFC via its hotline or the nearest SFC Kuching Regional Office so appropriate rescue, examination, and management measures can be carried out.

“SFC extends its appreciation to all agencies, the local community and members of the public for their cooperation in this incident.” — DayakDaily