KOTA KINABALU: Fourteen people have been questioned so far
over a dinner attended by a federal minister in Sandakan last
year where turtle eggs were served.
State Wildlife Department director William Baya said they wanted
to record the statement of Rural and Regional Development Minister
Datuk Ismail Sabri Yaakob, but only after meeting local leaders who
were at the dinner last November.
"We have yet to issue any letter or contact the minister to get his
statement because of logistical issues since he is in Kuala Lumpur,"
William said.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun
said Ismail was not a target of the investigation, but they wanted
to record his statement.
The department launched a probe after photographs were posted on social
media showing Ismail at an Umno division dinner at a seafood restaurant
together with Beluran Umno chief Datuk James Ratib.
A plate of what appeared to be at least two dozen turtle eggs were seen
on the table before them.
Turtles are protected under the Sabah Wildlife Enactment 1997.
Turtles are protected under the Sabah Wildlife Enactment 1997.
It is an offence to be in possession of the animals or their products,
such as eggs, and those convicted are liable to a fine of RM50,000, five
years' imprisonment or both.
The photographs, which went viral on social media, sparked an outcry among
conservationists here.
Source: Asia One
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