Assessing Impact of Batam's Escaped Crocodiles on Singapore's Wildlife Ecosystem and Measures to Protect Residents, Farms and Businesses
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns measures to manage the potential arrival of escaped crocodiles from Batam and their impact on Singapore's biodiversity and public safety. MPs Ms Joan Pereira and Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim inquired about recovery efforts, protection for farms in Lim Chu Kang and Neo Tiew, and safety protocols for residents. Minister for National Development Mr Desmond Lee stated that the risk of these crocodiles reaching Singapore or disrupting the ecosystem is low due to habitat preferences and the long sea journey. He noted that the Singapore Food Agency has issued advisories to coastal fish farms while the National Parks Board continues monitoring the situation with various stakeholders. The Minister advised the public to remain calm and report sightings, while residents visiting Batam should consult local authorities before participating in water activities.
Transcript
36 Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for National Development with regard to the escaped crocodiles from Batam (a) what measures are in place to identify and recover any of these animals that may enter Singapore waters; (b) how are our agencies working with our foreign counterparts on this matter; and (c) what additional safety measures have been activated for Singapore residents visiting Batam.
37 Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry has assessed the potential impact on Singapore's biodiversity from the crocodiles that escaped from a farm in Batam, which may disrupt the local ecosystem by competing with or preying on native wildlife; (b) if so, what are the steps taken by NParks, together with other agencies, to protect the biodiversity of Singapore's wildlife; and (c) what are the measures to protect the farms and businesses in the Lim Chu Kang, Neo Tiew and neighbouring areas.
Mr Desmond Lee: The National Parks Board (NParks) has assessed that the likelihood of the escaped crocodiles from Batam appearing in Singapore waters, including in Lim Chu Kang, Neo Tiew and their neighbouring areas, and the corollary biodiversity impact would be low. The crocodiles are unlikely to land in Singapore due to the more favourable habitats along their native coastlines, as compared to the extensive sea journey required to reach our shores. Nevertheless, the Singapore Food Agency has issued an advisory to our coastal fish farms to exercise vigilance and NParks is monitoring the situation with other agencies and stakeholders.
Should members of public encounter a crocodile, whether in Singapore or abroad, they should stay calm and back away. They should not approach, provoke or feed the animal and should heed warning signs and advisory notices posted in areas where crocodiles have been sighted. In the event of a sighting in Singapore, members of public should report the sighting to NParks, so that the risk to public safety can be monitored and managed. Singapore residents visiting the Batam coastal tourism areas may also wish to consult local staff and authorities for advice, especially if they plan to engage in water activities.