Video Shows Turtle Getting Harassed And Abused By Tourist In Redang

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A tourist in Pulau Redang has sparked outrage after a video surfaced showing him touching, holding, and even stepping on a turtle during a snorkelling trip

The clip, which was first shared on Chinese social media app Xiaohongshu, shows the man and several others harassing the endangered turtle while others filmed the scene.

In another moment, the tour guide, who was reportedly from a nearby resort, could be seen gripping the turtle's neck.

Watch the video below:

@traccborneo

🚨DO NOT TOUCH 🚨 Another incident has been brought forward to us of multiple Endangered Green Turtles being harassed and abused in Malaysia. This behaviour is deeply disturbing and concerning and should never be endorsed. Reports have been made to the authorities to take action on this matter. Although turtles can hold their breath for long periods, they still need to surface for air because they have lungs, not gills. If a turtle becomes trapped underwater or cannot reach the surface, it can drown just like any other air-breathing animal. However more importantly; this behaviour should never take place and YOU as a consumer have got a voice. What should you do if an operator, other diver/snorkeler, guide or institution shows such behaviour? If you see a turtle being abused, stay calm and do not confront the abuser directly. Instead, record details like the location, time, tour operator/boat number and what's happening, then contact local animal control, wildlife rescue, NGO, or the relevant authorities to report the abuse. If it's safe, you can also take photos or videos as evidence to help authorities protect the turtle. This should never take place, please never accept this and do make the report. Often these incidents occur due to ignorance or going out of their way to ensure a consumer gets "the best experience". Never accept this kind of behaviour, observation is done with your eyes, not your hands. #tracc #borneo #volunteering #malaysia #seaturtle #turtle animalabuse #conservation #wildlife

♬ original sound – TRACCBORNEO – TRACCBORNEO

The incident took place near Teluk Dalam and a formal complaint has since been lodged with the authorities

It's believed that the group was staying at a resort on the island, and that the guide had encouraged the behaviour.

Marine conservation group Tropical Research and Conservation Centre (TRACC Borneo) has condemned the act, calling it a form of animal abuse and urging for stronger enforcement to protect Malaysia's marine life.

"From a personal standpoint, I question how often this needs to happen for it to be considered an 'incident' and at which stage are we looking at a systematic problem that keeps occurring," Robin Philippo, director of TRACC Borneo told SAYS.

"This is the second case of very clear abuse in the last six months in Malaysia, with [another incident] earlier in the year in Sabah.

"Turtles are one of the most precious creatures that are in abundance in the whole of Malaysia where tourists come to see them. I believe that we wouldn't want tourists to experience turtles like this; or the tourists to perceive this as the norm as it would bring a bad reputation upon our tourism practices," he added.

In a post addressing the incident, TRACC reminded the public that while turtles can hold their breath for long periods, they still need to surface for air, and being restrained or handled can cause them stress or even drown

"If you see a turtle being abused, don't confront the person directly."

"Record the location, time, and tour operator, and report it to local authorities or wildlife organisations. Observation should always be done with your eyes, not your hands," TRACC advised.

Pulau Redang is part of Malaysia's Marine Park, where it's illegal to touch, catch, or harass any marine animals

But despite repeated awareness campaigns, such incidents continue to occur, prompting calls for stricter oversight and better education among tour operators.

TRACC ended their post with a clear message that has since resonated with many online:

"Do not touch. Do not disturb. Just observe."

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