Simunjan rep urges aggressive measures to reduce crocodile population in Batang Sadong

Awla (seated centre) listening and comforting the victim's family during a visit to SAR operation command centre on Feb 18, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

SADONG JAYA, Feb 18: Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris has called for more decisive action by relevant agencies to control the growing population of crocodiles threatening residents along the Batang Sadong.

He noted that incidents involving the reptiles have surged in recent months.

“I urge the authorities to implement more aggressive measures against crocodiles, as there have been too many recent cases in the Batang Sadong area. This is particularly important because many residents depend on the river for their livelihood,” he told the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) today.

Awla made the statement during a visit to the Search and Rescue (SAR) operation command centre near the Batang Sadong Bridge, where he received updates on a crocodile attack reported on Tuesday at around 11am.

The victim, Mohd Faizal Abdillah, 29, from Kampung Rangawan, Sadong Jaya, was reportedly snatched by a crocodile in the area.

The assemblyman’s visit aimed to provide moral support to the rescue team and ensure that operational resources were adequate.

He was briefed on the ongoing operation by representatives from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Asajaya, Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM), and the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), who are coordinating in an integrated effort.

The search and rescue operation also involves the Samarahan Crocodile Hunter group and local villagers assisting in locating the victim.

Awla also met with the victim’s family at the scene, offering words of encouragement and presenting a contribution as a gesture of support throughout the operation.

He urged the public to exercise caution in riverine areas and comply with all safety instructions to prevent further incidents. — DayakDaily