Chinese Tourist Accused of Abusing Rare Turtle

A Chinese tourist diving in Sabah, Malaysia, has sparked widespread online outrage after being accused of harassing a critically endangered hawksbill turtle and killing sea slugs at a popular dive site in Semporna.

The allegations were raised by a female Chinese diver, who said she encountered the man during two separate dives in late December and early January. 

According to her account, the tourist was seen pulling and dragging a hawksbill turtle underwater, an act that can cause extreme stress or injury to the animal. Hawksbill turtles are listed as critically endangered and are strictly protected under Malaysian law.

During a later dive, the same tourist was allegedly seen crushing a blue sea slug and damaging coral reefs, actions that further angered fellow divers and conservation supporters. Sea slugs, while small, play an important role in marine ecosystems, and coral damage can take decades to recover.

The witness said she reported the incident to the local dive operator but felt the response was inadequate. 

After returning to China, she shared her experience on social media, where the story quickly went viral and triggered strong reactions from netizens in both China and Malaysia.

The case has since been forwarded to international diving authorities, prompting calls for stricter supervision of divers and better enforcement of marine protection rules. 

Many have urged dive operators to take stronger responsibility in educating tourists and stopping harmful behaviour immediately when it occurs.

Malaysia's waters are home to rich and fragile marine life, and authorities regularly remind visitors that touching, chasing, or harming marine animals is prohibited. Conservation groups warn that irresponsible tourism not only threatens wildlife but also damages the country's natural heritage.

The incident has reignited debate over tourist responsibility abroad, with many netizens stressing that respecting local laws and the environment is essential—both above and below the sea.

Source:https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3339289/chinese-tourist-malaysia-accused-harassing-rare-turtle-killing-sea-slugs