In 2019, Malaysians were treated to a series of viral videos showcasing rarely seen wildlife, sparking comparisons to the fantastical world of Jumanji. From orca whales to wild elephants, these sightings captured the imagination of the public and drew attention to the diverse and unique wildlife that calls Malaysia home.
One such video that captured the hearts of many was that of a wild elephant taking a leisurely dip in Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu. The playful giant seemed oblivious to the camera as it enjoyed its swim before disappearing into the thick jungle, leaving viewers in awe of its majestic presence.
Another notable sighting in Terengganu was that of a pair of tigers casually strolling past cars and onlookers in a small town. The incident, although initially terrifying for locals, took a tragic turn as one of the tigers, known as Awang Besul, was found to be suffering from Canine Distemper Virus, leading to its untimely demise.
In a surprising first-time encounter, Petronas staff members near the Pelantar Dulang oil drilling platform in Terengganu spotted Orca whales in the waters, marking the first recorded sighting of these majestic creatures in Terengganu. The rare sighting left experts and onlookers alike in awe of the beauty and diversity of Malaysia’s marine life.
Closer to home, visitors to Taman Tasik Metropolitan Kepong were delighted to discover endangered otters making the lake their home. These furry creatures are not only a joy to watch but also serve as indicators of a healthy wetland ecosystem, highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats for wildlife.
In a more urban setting, residents of a Seremban neighborhood were surprised to find a tapir taking a leisurely stroll through their streets. A team of eight from the Civil Defence Force was called in to capture the tapir, believed to have wandered from a nearby jungle, before handing it over to wildlife authorities for safekeeping.
These sightings serve as a reminder of the rich biodiversity that Malaysia is blessed with and the importance of conservation efforts to protect and preserve these precious species. As we marvel at these rare encounters, let us also reflect on our role in ensuring the continued existence of these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Which animals did we miss? Share your thoughts and sightings with us on our social media platforms – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Written by Hakim Hassan, a tech enthusiast with a passion for storytelling and a love for all things wild and wonderful. Despite his unkempt appearance, Hakim’s writing captures the beauty and magic of the natural world, reminding us of the wonders that surround us every day.
