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SURVEY OF MARINE TURTLE EGG CONSUMPTION AND TRADE IN MALAYSIA

FINAL REPORT

MARCH 2009

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Table of contents 1. Background........................................................................................................................... 5

1.1 Marine Turtles in Malaysia ............................................................................................ 5 1.2 Objective and conceptual framework of study .............................................................. 6 1.3 Overview of report and project outputs: ........................................................................ 7

2. Marine Turtle Legislation and Management in Malaysia .................................................... 9 3. Overview of study methodology and survey..................................................................... 12

3.1 Selection of study sites ...............................................................................................12 3.1.1 Study sites: Turtle egg consumers ...................................................................... 12 3.1.2 Study sites: Turtle egg trade routes and source.................................................. 13

3.2 Survey Questionnaires................................................................................................ 14 3.3 Selection and training of field enumerators................................................................. 14 3.4 Implementation of field surveys, data entry and analysis............................................ 15

4. Consumer profile: Key findings and observations ............................................................ 16

4.1 Marine turtle egg consumer surveys ........................................................................... 16 4.1.1 Socioeconomic profile ......................................................................................... 16 4.1.2 Consumption patterns and behaviour of marine turtle egg consumers............... 18 4.1.3 Marine turtle egg consumers’ perception on turtle population............................. 20 4.1.4 Source of eggs .................................................................................................... 22 4.1.5 Communication avenues and interests in protecting marine turtles.................... 23 4.1.6 Further analysis:Consistent and one-off consumers ........................................... 24

5. Trade routes and profiles of egg collectors and sellers: ................................................... 30

5.1 Overview based on newspaper, internet sources and interviews ............................... 30 5.1.1 Southern Philippines - Sabah Route ................................................................... 30 5.1.2 West Kalimantan - Sarawak Route ..................................................................... 31 5.1.3 Sabah/Indonesia/Philippines – Terengganu Routes ........................................... 32 5.1.4 Natuna - Malaysia and Natuna - Singapore Routes............................................ 32 5.1.5 Kuala Lumpur - Chow Kit Market ........................................................................ 32

5.2 Survey of Terengganu egg collectors ......................................................................... 33 5.2.1 Profile of egg collectors ....................................................................................... 33 5.2.2 Characteristics of egg collectors ......................................................................... 34 5.2.3 Markets for turtle eggs......................................................................................... 35 5.2.4 Perception of egg collectors ................................................................................ 36

5.3 Survey of Terengganu egg sellers .............................................................................. 37 5.4 Melaka egg collectors and resort operators ................................................................ 39

5.4.1 Interviews with Melaka egg collectors ................................................................. 40 5.4.2 Interviews with Melaka resort operators.............................................................. 41

6. Key findings and concluding remarks............................................................................... 43

6.1 Marine turtle egg consumers....................................................................................... 43 6.2 Trade routes................................................................................................................ 44 6.3 Education and awareness framework and concluding remarks .................................. 45

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List of Appendix Appendix 1: Areas allowed for licensed egg collection and details of egg collectors ............. 48 Appendix 2: Survey Questionnaires for Terengganu .............................................................. 51

Questionnaire 1: Household survey questionnaire .............................................................. 51 Questionnaire 2: Egg collectors questionnaire .................................................................... 57 Questionnaire 3: Egg seller survey questionnaire ............................................................... 61

Appendix 3: Survey Questionnaires for Melaka...................................................................... 63

Questionnaire 1: Marine Turtle Egg Collectors Survey, Melaka, 2008 ................................ 63 Questionnaire 2: Resort & Chalet Operators Survey on Sale of Marine Turtle Eggs, 2008.69

Appendix 4: List of chalets and resorts in related nesting areas in Melaka ............................ 70 Reference ............................................................................................................................... 74

List of Figures Figure 1.1: Linkages influencing turtle egg consumption and threats to turtle populations ...... 7 Figure 1.2: Schematic task network.......................................................................................... 8 Figure 6.1: Taxonomy of key target audience for developing turtle related education and

awareness campaigns...........................................................................................46

List of Boxes Box 2.1: List of marine turtle related legislation in Malaysia ..................................................... 9 Box 2.2: List of relevant priorities from the National Plan of Action. ....................................... 11

List of Tables Table 3.1: Summary approaches and targeted respondents.................................................. 12 Table 3.2: Study sites in Terengganu and Melaka.................................................................. 14 Table 4.1: Socioeconomic profiles of egg consumers ............................................................ 17 Table 4.2: Consumption patterns and behaviour of turtle egg consumption........................... 18 Table 4.3: Cross tabulation of total eggs bought at one time with gender, age group,

education and income group ............................................................................................20 Table 4.4: Consumers’ perception on turtle populations......................................................... 20 Table 4.5: Chi-square tests on turtle population decline with gender, age group & education21 Table 4.6: Response to knowledge of declining populations and increase in price of eggs ... 22 Table 4.7: Sources of eggs .....................................................................................................23 Table 4.8: Communication avenues and interests in conservation initiatives......................... 24 Table 4.9: Suggestions to reduce turtle egg consumption...................................................... 24 Table 4.10: Cross tabulation of respondents that would consume eggs out of curiosity by

gender, age group, education and income level............................................................... 25 Table 4.11: Chi-square tests - decision to continue consuming eggs even if aware of its

contribution to turtle decline with gender, age group, education and income levels ........ 26 Table 4.12: Chi-square tests – decision to continue consuming eggs even if price doubled

with gender, age group, education and income levels ..................................................... 26 Table 4.13: Reasons for egg consumption among consistent consumers ............................. 27 Table 4.14: Source of eggs among consistent consumers ..................................................... 28

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Table 4.15: Communication avenues and interests in conservation among consistent consumers........................................................................................................................ 29

Table 4.16: Suggestions to reduce turtle egg consumption among consistent consumers .... 29 Table 5.1: Socioeconomic profiles of egg collectors............................................................... 33 Table 5.2: Characteristics of egg collectors and collections ................................................... 35 Table 5.3: Markets for turtle eggs and price ........................................................................... 36 Table 5.4: Perception of egg collectors................................................................................... 37 Table 5.5: Cross tabulation between interest to change to an alternative job with age group 37 Table 5.6: Types of consumer groups .................................................................................... 37 Table 5.7: Demand for turtle eggs .......................................................................................... 38 Table 5.8: Average turtle eggs supplied ................................................................................. 38 Table 5.9: Number of resort and chalet operators by location and number of operators

contacted.......................................................................................................................... 42

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1. Background Marine turtles are considered a globally important species. This is demonstrated by the existence of various international initiatives towards the conservation of the species. There are seven species of marine turtles in the world. Four out of these seven species are found in Malaysia; namely green turtles (Chelonia mydas), hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata), olive ridleys (Lepidochelys olivacea), and leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea). The recently developed National Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sea Turtles in Malaysia identified banning commercial sale of turtle eggs in the country as one of its main priorities. The development of the National Plan of Action was led by the Department of Fisheries (DOF) Malaysia in collaboration with government agencies, universities and NGOs,. In 2005 the motion of banning turtle egg consumption had also been considered by the DOF to be implemented in the country by 2010 (The Star 2005). This was aimed to ensure uniformity of regulation among all the states with turtle nestings. Though marine turtles are of significant importance at the national level an essential consideration to note is the listing of turtles under State jurisdiction based on the Federal Constitution.. This means that respective states have the legislative powers and responsibilities over the management of sea turtles on state land and three nautical miles from the beaches. Critically, challenges at the state level need to be appreciated and meaningfully understood in order to engage relevant stakeholders such as policy makers, consumers and traders for real impacts to be realized on the ground. This would contribute to better acceptance of the national policies and related regulations. This study entitled ‘Marine Turtle Egg Consumption Survey in Malaysia’ was commissioned by WWF-Malaysia to TRAFFIC Southeast Asia (TRAFFIC SEA) as part of WWF-Malaysia’s conservation efforts to address marine turtle egg consumption and trade in various parts of the country. Information generated from the study is aimed at providing a better understanding of the profile of consumers and possible trade routes in order to contribute towards WWF-Malaysia’s efforts to produce communication/awareness materials on marine turtle conservation, in particular on marine turtle egg protection and overall turtle conservation initiatives. This will also subsequently contribute towards the national priorities of the National Plan of Action. All marine turtles are listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) since 1981. The CITES listing protects marine turtles from international commercial trade in individuals, parts, and derivatives. Despite this, marine turtles and their products continue to be widely traded (Marine Turtle Newsletter 1989). While CITES provides a framework for international regulation and monitoring, the trade and consumption of eggs domestically are under the jurisdiction of national laws.

1.1 Marine Turtles in Malaysia The major nesting sites in Malaysia are found in Sabah, Sarawak, Terengganu, Melaka and in some parts of Pahang and Perak. Other states such as Penang and Johor also have records of turtle nesting. The leatherback turtle used to nest primarily on the mainland beaches of Terengganu, along a 15 km stretch of beach centred at Rantau Abang. However, the nesting population has suffered a dramatic decline with less than a handful in recent years indicating that the population in that area is virtually extinct (Chan 2004). The green turtle is the most abundant and more widely distributed with the most important nesting populations occurring in the Sabah and Sarawak Turtle Islands. Other nesting beaches can be found in Terengganu (mainly on Redang and Perhentian Islands, Kemaman and Kerteh), Pahang (Chendor and Cherating), Perak (Pantai Remis) and Sipadan Island in Sabah (Chan 2006). The hawksbill turtle has only two remaining important nesting populations in the Sabah

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Turtle Islands (principally Gulisaan Island) and Melaka, with remnant populations in Terengganu, Johor and elsewhere. The status of the olive ridley is a cause of concern, with isolated cases of nesting reported in the Sarawak Turtle Islands, Penang, Terengganu and Kelantan (Chan 2006). A whole suite of factors have been identified that result in the decline of the long-lived and slow growing marine turtle species. Among these, marine turtle egg consumption has been widely expressed and highlighted as a major threat in various forums and research findings (Liew 2002; Chan 2004; Steering Committee, Bellagio Conference on Sea Turtles 2004; Hamann et. al 2006; and Ibrahim and Sharma 2006). Though coastal communities have consumed eggs from marine turtles for decades and the practice has become a cultural norm, the persistence of these impacts without careful monitoring and intervention will increase the vulnerability of the species into extinction. Chan and Liew 1996 observed that one of the causes for decline of leatherback turtles in Malaysia was due to the long history of egg exploitation apart from the impacts of fisheries. The survival of marine turtles in Malaysia is also threatened by habitat destruction (pollution and negative changes to their habitats), accidental drowning in fishing gear at terrestrial waters and high seas and illegal harvesting for their carapace and meat usually by foreign fishing vessels. In Malaysia, marine turtle eggs are considered a local delicacy with purported medicinal and aphrodisiac properties but this has not been proven scientifically. There are reports suggesting that domestic tourists buy and eat turtle eggs out of curiosity, ostensibly encouraged by local tour guides as a “must do” tourism activities (Turtle Research and Rehabilitation Group, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 2008). In certain places, perhaps partly due to sustained demand, the price of a single egg can go as high as RM1.50 to RM4.00. It is believed that a lack of a uniform national legal regime pertaining to turtle egg harvesting/conservation and the varying degree of law enforcement capability may have given rise to intra-state trading of the eggs. Internationally, the perception is that the comparatively more lucrative domestic market in Malaysia is fuelling smuggling of turtle eggs from Indonesia and the Philippines into the country. Presently there is no national legislation though a draft is being prepared to protect and conserve marine turtles. Some States have their own legislation while others do not have any such as Selangor and Perlis (Zulkifli et. al 2004). The sale and consumption of leatherback eggs was banned in Terengganu in 1989, however, the consumption and trade of other species such as the green turtles have not been banned except in Sabah and Sarawak. The collection of eggs in the states of Peninsular Malaysia is governed by licensing systems. However due to the lack of manpower to monitor large areas, enforcement is usually insufficient to monitor illegal collection of turtle eggs.

1.2 Objective and conceptual framework of study The two main objectives identified in the Terms of Reference of the study are:

a) To identify the main consumers (identifying age group, gender, socio-economic, demographic background) and understand their consumption pattern of turtle eggs.

b) To identify the source and trade routes of the eggs.

The inter-relationships and linkages that influence preferences and behaviours that lead to turtle egg consumption is represented in the conceptual framework below. It can be assumed that preferences and subsequently behaviour of consumers are affected by their cultural and environmental perceptions; socioeconomic characteristics; and market access and availability of marine turtle eggs. This framework, presented at the initial stage of the study, provides the basis for undertaking a study to understand consumer profiles, their perceptions and background characteristics. At the same time, the review of trade routes is aimed at grasping a better understanding of market access and availability of eggs.

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Figure 1.1: Linkages influencing turtle egg consumption and threats to turtle populations

1.3 Overview of report and project outputs: This report contains research findings from field surveys of consumer profiles and possible trade routes of marine turtle eggs based on face to face interviews with relevant stakeholders and a literature review of the topic. These findings provides the basis for developing WWF-Malaysia’s education and awareness campaign towards addressing challenges of the on-going marine turtle egg consumption and trade in the country. The study involved close collaboration between TRAFFIC SEA and PE Research in developing the study methodology, survey planning, analysis and write up. WWF-Malaysia provided the overall guidance for the study with regards to the planning and implementation of the study through report presentations and feedback sessions and inputs from relevant personnel including field scientific officers. The schematic task network below (Figure 2) provides an overview of the process of the study. The study submitted three reports:

• Submission of the first draft report outlined the proposed methodology, research framework, scope of the field work based on available budget, details of the proposed survey sites and progress. The report was submitted in August 2008.

• The second draft report focussed on survey findings especially for Terengganu while planning was done for field surveys for Melaka was carried out during the same period. The second draft report was submitted in October 2008.

• This final report outlines the overall outputs of the study and findings to provide the profile of marine turtle egg consumers and the identified trade routes. It also offers a framework to provide a better understanding of the target audience to be considered in the process of developing conservation and awareness programs.

Cultural & environmental

perceptions

Socioeconomic characteristics

Market access and availability

Turtle populations

Turtle egg consumption

Other threats: Fisheries interactions Pollution Habitat change Environmental impacts Climate change Trade

Preferences

Behaviours

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Figure 0.2. Schematic task network

Task 2: Survey design, planning and pre-testing

Task 4: Survey implementation & interviews

Task 3: Engage field surveyors & training

Task 1: Review of literature & related legislation

Task 5: Data entry, analysis and tabulation

Task 6: Develop draft report

Task 7: Submission of final report

Methodology to be finalized and agreed with TRAFFIC SEA

Comments from TRAFFIC

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2. Marine Turtle Legislation and Management in Malaysia

2.1 Marine Turtle Legislation in Malaysia Zulkifli Talib et. al (2004) mentioned, under the Malaysian Constitution, turtles fall under the jurisdiction of the 13 individual states. Below is the Federal and States legislations that referred to the management of turtles in Malaysia (see Box 2.1). Box 2.1: List of marine turtle related legislation in Malaysia

FEDERAL LEGISLATION • Fisheries Act 1985 • Protection of Wildlife Act 1972 • The Customs Act 1967

FEDERAL SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION

• Fisheries (Prohibited Areas) (Rantau Abang) Regulations 1991 • Fisheries (Prohibition of Method of Fishing) (Amendment) Regulation 1990 • Customs (Prohibition of Exports) Order 1988 • Customs (Prohibition of Import) Order 1988

STATE LEGISLATION Terengganu

• Turtle Enactment 1951 (Amendment 1987) • Turtle Enactment 1951 (Amendment 1989) • Section 3A Notification Under Turtle Enactment 1951

Johor

• Fisheries (Turtles and Turtle Eggs) Rules 1984

Kedah • Turtle Enactment 1972 • Turtle Rules 1975

Kelantan

• Turtles and Turtles Eggs of 1072 (Amended 1935, Enactment No.8) • Fisheries (Turtles and Turtle’s Eggs) Rules 1978

Malacca

• Fisheries (Turtles and Turtle Eggs) Rules 1989 Negeri Sembilan

• Fisheries (Turtles and Turtle Eggs) Rules 1976 Pahang

• Fisheries (Turtles and Turtle Eggs) Rules 1996 Penang

• Fisheries (Turtles and Turtle Eggs) Rules 1999 Perak

• River Right Enactment 1915

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Sabah • Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997 • Parks Enactment 1984 • Customs (Prohibition of Exports) Order 1988 • Customs (Prohibition of Import) Order 1988

Sarawak

• Turtle Trust Ordinance, 1957 • Turtle (Prevention of Disturbance) Rules, 1962 • Wildlife Protection Ordinance , 1958 (Amended 1973) • Wildlife Protection Ordinance , 1990 (Amended 1995) • Wildlife Protection Rules, 1998 • National Parks and Nature Reserves Ordinance 1998 • National Parks and Nature Reserves Rules, 1999 • Wildlife Protection Ordinance , 1998 (Amended 2003) • Customs (Prohibition of Exports) Order 1988 • Customs (Prohibition of Import) Order 1988

Selangor and Perlis

• No legislation In Peninsula Malaysia , Perlis and Selangor do not have marine turtle related legislation. The legislations in other states mainly prescribes the procedures and fees for the purposes of securing licences to collect eggs, operating turtle watching areas.There are also penalties prescribed for offences involving the possession or killing of turtles. Penalties for offences range from fines from RM100 up to RM3, 000 and jail terms from three months to one year. Under the Customs (Prohibition of Exports) Order 1988 – First Schedule and Customs (Prohibition of Import) Order 1988 – First Schedule, the import and export of turtle eggs are not allowed. The Department of Fisheries Malaysia has received reports from the Royal Malaysian Customs of illegal trade; however no detailed study has been conducted to ascertain the extent and mechanisms of the illegal trade.1 So far, only Sabah’s Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997 and Sarawak’s Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998 has listed marine turtles under their legislation as totally protected animals. In Sabah two government bodies oversee the management of turtles, which are Sabah Parks (only for Turtle Islands and islands under their jurisdiction) and the Sabah Wildlife Department. The ban on turtle egg consumption and sale covers the whole state of Sabah except for the rights to two families to collect eggs from the islands around Sipadan prior to 1997. Since the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997 was gazetted, the right was repealed and have resulted in the families seeking for compensation. Under Section 41 of the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, offenders risk being fined up to RM50, 000 or five years' jail, or both upon conviction.2 The recovery of the Sabah Turtle Islands populations has been attributed to the foresight of the state government to ban turtle egg consumption and sale and to afford protection to the Turtle Islands in the 1970s. For Sarawak, under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998, all marine turtles or any recognizable part or derivative thereof are listed under totally protected animals, whereby any person who kills, captures, sells, offers for sale or claims to be offering for sale, imports, exports, or is in possession of, except in accordance with the permission in writing of the controller for scientific or educational purposes or for the protection and conservation of such

1 Interview with DOF, Putrajaya, Encik Zabawi Saat, Licensing and Management Unit, 8 July 2008. 2 Daily Express, Malaysia. 5 October 2008.

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totally protected animals, shall be guilty of an offence. Under section 29 (1) subsection c, the penalty is imprisonment for two years and a fine of RM25,000. The interviews with officials from the state Department of Fisheries in Johor, Pahang and Penang, the departments buys all the eggs collected by the licensed collectors for the department’s hatcheries, and at the same time they also discourage the public from consuming turtle eggs.

2.2 The National Plan of Action for Conservation and Management of Sea Turtles in Malaysia

The National Plan of Action for Conservation and Management of Sea Turtles in Malaysia was promulgated in a launch in 2008. The action plan aims to strengthen conservation measures and enhance the management of sea turtles in Malaysia. A total of 16 priorities were set .The four priorities that are closely connected to this study are highlighted below in Box 2.1 (DOF 2008). Box 2.2: List of relevant priorities from the National Plan of Action.

The continuing trend of marine turtle egg consumption especially in Peninsular Malaysia demonstrates the need to revise the legislation in all states and to raise awareness amongst the public in order to conserve marine turtles in Malaysia. The suggestion that a total protection of all turtle eggs involving a total ban on turtle egg consumption and sales should be implemented but this would need joint-effort and cooperation from all the state governments since it falls under their jurisdiction. To materialise these efforts, a standardized legislation is an important priority.

Priority 1. National ban on commercial sale of turtle eggs. Priority 3. All states to harmonise their legislation according to the new legislation

of sea turtles. Priority 13. Enhance public awareness, information and education program to all

stakeholders specially to facilitate participation of local communities in conservation programs.

Priority 14. National ban on consumption of turtle eggs and other turtle products.

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3. Overview of study methodology and survey The field surveys and interviews focused on gathering the socioeconomic profile of egg consumers and outlining the trade routes of turtle eggs. As highlighted in the first draft report, the following approaches were undertaken using both field surveys for primary data and key informant interviews to gather background information of the study areas. A review of newspaper articles and internet sources were undertaken to enhance the findings of secondary data on trade routes. Table 3.1 provides the summary of approaches and target respondents of the study.

Table 0.1: Summary of approaches and targeted respondents

Activity Objectives Tools or

approaches Targeted respondents

1 Socioeconomic survey

Understanding the socioeconomic profile and perception of consumers

Face to face interviews

Turtle egg consumers

2 Survey on trade routes

Identifying markets, trade routes and sources of eggs

Face to face, telephone/ mail interviews and literature review

Egg collectors, sellers, key informants, govt agencies

3.1 Selection of study sites

3.1.1 Study sites: Turtle egg consumers The preliminary scope of the study involved collecting and analyzing information on marine turtle egg consumption in selected areas such as Terengganu, Pahang, Melaka, and east coast of Johor, Sabah and Sarawak. In the process of outlining and planning the field surveys, the study team discussed various options for the choice of study sites. This was aimed to obtain a maximum impact based on the available budget for the study. With the agreement of WWF-Malaysia, the study team focused the field surveys in the state of Terengganu for the socioeconomic surveys of egg consumers where the consumption of eggs is widespread and eggs are openly sold in markets. Terengganu has been reported to be a popular state for selling turtle eggs (Zahaitun 2004). This would provide a more in-depth understanding of turtle egg consumption patterns, background profile and perceptions of egg consumers. After a reconnaissance survey, the study team identified the following areas for in-depth socioeconomic surveys. The sites were chosen due to their proximity to Pasar Payang, the main market selling turtle eggs in the state located in Kuala Terengganu. The study sites included Kampung Duyung Wan Su, Kampung Duyung Kecil, Kampung Duyung Sekolah, Kampung Kelab Air, Kampung Pantai Batu Rakit, Kampung Tanjung, Kampung Losong Feri, Kampung Dato Amar, Kampong Losong Atap Zin and Kampung Losong Pasir.

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The map shows the location of the study areas.

Figure 3.1: Map of study sites.

3.1.2 Study sites: Turtle egg trade routes and source In order to map the trade routes of turtle egg sale, the study team interviewed egg sellers and collectors as the two main target groups. The study focussed the efforts on Terengganu. There reasons for this are because Terengganu is a key state that has a high demand for turtle eggs and trade, Budget limitations were also a factor on the choice., In view of Melaka as an important nesting site for hawksbill turtles in the country and the existence of a WWF-Malaysia field project, a rapid field survey was also conducted there, targeting licensed egg collectors and resort operators. Turtle eggs are known to be sold at the Pasar Payang market in Kuala Terengganu. In addition, they are also known to be sold at the following areas - Geliga (market and keropok stalls), Pasar Chukai, Pasar Paka, Pasar Dungun, Pasar Marang, Pasar Chabang Tiga, Pasar Batu Enam, Pasar Jertih and including keropok stalls along the coast of Terengganu3. Since 2005, all major nesting sites in Pulau Redang and Perhentian have been declared as turtle reserves by the State Government of Terengganu. Hence, the collection of turtle eggs is prohibited on these islands. Turtle egg sellers and collectors at the respective sites below were interviewed (see Table 3.2).

3 Personal communication, former Chief, Turtle and Ecosystem Marine Research Center, En. Kamarruddin Ibrahim, 2008.

Losong

Pulau Duyong

Batu Rakit

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Table 3.0.2: Study sites in Terengganu and Melaka

Interviews Study sites Egg sellers Pasar Payang, Pasar “Gate” Dungun, Pasar Chukai, Pasar

Jertih, Pasar Besar Dungun Egg collectors in Terengganu

Pantai Kijal, Pantai Kemasek, Pantai Kerteh, Penarik, Sempadan, Kuala Dungun, Kuala Abang, Tahu Tiga, Jambu Bongkok, Kuala Baharu Utara, Kuala Tok Char

Egg collectors in Melaka

Kg. Air Itam Pantai, Tanjung Bidara, Kg. Padang Kamunting Masjid Tanah, Kg. Tanjung Dahan Kuala Sg. Baru, Tanjung Kling, Kg Telok Gong.

In Melaka, only licensed egg collectors are allowed to collect eggs to be sold to the Department of Fisheries for hatchery and conservation purposes. However, it has been noted that the illegal collection and trade of turtle eggs is still widespread. The field survey in Melaka concentrated on interviewing egg collectors to identify the potential illegal egg trade and identify tourist sites that are selling turtle eggs. Findings from interviews with key agencies of other states such as Sabah and Sarawak and a review of the literature and newspaper reports is presented to enhance the findings on the turtle egg trade routes. Appendix 1 provides a list of egg collectors for the state of Terengganu, Pahang, Melaka and Johor obtained from the DOF of the respective states.

3.2 Survey Questionnaires Three survey questionnaires were designed for the different target groups in Terengganu. These included survey questionnaires for the following (see Appendix 2 for the questionnaires):

a) Marine Turtle Egg Consumption Household Survey, Terengganu 2008, b) Marine Turtle Egg Collectors Survey, Terengganu 2008 and c) Marine Turtle Egg Sellers Survey, Terengganu, 2008.

Pre-testing of the three survey questionnaires was conducted from 4-8 August 2008 in Terengganu. The questionnaires were further refined based on the pre-testing exercise and feedback from the interview sessions. Questions and sentences that were not easily understood by respondents were modified and improved. Overall, the questionnaires were tailored so that they were short and concise to improve the effectiveness of the interviewing sessions. Questionnaires for the Melaka survey have been refined through consultations with the WWF-Malaysia project officers based in Melaka. The questionnaires developed for the Melaka field surveys are as follows (see Appendix 3 for the questionnaires):

a) Marine Turtle Egg Collectors Survey, Melaka, 2008 and b) Resort Operators Surveys on the Sale of Marine Turtle Eggs, Melaka, 2008.

3.3 Selection and training of field enumerators The study team conducted interviews with students from University Malaysia Terengganu and youths from the local communities to assess their suitability as enumerators; this was aimed at having the appropriate persons with knowledge of the local dialect to carry out the surveys and also help reduce travelling costs. Training sessions were undertaken before the launch of the main survey. An explanation of the questionnaires and demonstrations were conducted in order for the interviewers to have a full understanding of the aims of the questions, ways to note down the responses and protocols for conducting the interviews. The first household

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interview by each interviewer was conducted under the observation of the trainer. Further guidance was given until the interviewers were confident and proficient to conduct the interviews on their own. The completed questionnaires were checked by the survey supervisor or the trainer periodically to make sure the information was collected based on proper guidance. The surveys in Melaka were implemented by the TRAFFIC officer with logistics assistance from WWF-Malaysia Melaka field executants.

3.4 Implementation of field surveys, data entry and analysis The main survey on turtle egg consumers was launched on 23 August 2008. The main part of the data collection was completed by 17 September 2008. Subsequently, another field survey was conducted to interview turtle egg collectors and sellers from 22 – 26 of September 2008. Field supervisors were elected to oversee the implementation of the field surveys in Terengganu and to monitor the progress and communicate with the study team. The field survey for Melaka was conducted in December 2008. The interviews for Melaka were conducted through face to face and telephone sessions. Data was entered into excel spreadsheets and converted into SPSS files for frequency analysis and tabulation. The results are presented below in Section 4 and 5.

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4. Consumer profile: Key findings and observations

4.1 Marine turtle egg consumer surveys About 396 households were visited in Pulau Duyung, Losong and Bukit Rakit , and 245 households (61.9 per cent) stated they had consumed turtle eggs before. The following discussion is based on this 245 respondents who have consumed turtle eggs. The total number of households by the respective study areas are reflected in Table 4.1.

Table 0.1 Total number of households by study areas

Study areas Total household numbers

Pulau Duyung (includes Kampung Duyung Wan Su, Kampung Duyung Kecil, Kampung Duyung Sekolah)

408

Batu Rakit (includes Kampung Kelab Air, Kampung Pantai Batu Raikit, Kampung Tanjung)

416

Losong (includes Kampung Losong Feri, Kampung Dato Amar, Kampong Losong Atap Zin and Kampung Losong Pasir)

389

Total 1213 (or 1178?)

The overall socioeconomic profile of the household surveys of turtle egg consumers, their consumption patterns and perception on turtle populations and conservation measures are summarized below.. Based on this background information, further analysis is carried out to provide a better understanding of the profile and socio-economic demographics turtle egg consumers.

4.1.1 Socioeconomic profile A total of 245 people were interviewed under this survey on marine turtle egg consumption. All (100 per cent) the respondents covered by this survey were Malays. Table 4.1 provides an overview of the socioeconomic profiles of the respondents. In terms of gender, 52 per cent of the respondents were males and 48 per cent were females. Over half (53 per cent) of the respondents were within the age group of 20 to 49, generally regarded as the more economically active age group. About 36 per cent of the respondents had completed secondary education (SPM), 13 per cent with lower secondary education qualification (SRP/PMR) and 27 per cent had primary education. Some 6 per cent, 7 per cent and 3 per cent of the respondents had certificate, diploma and graduate-level education respectively. In all, over 93 per cent of the respondents had attended some form of formal education while about 7 per cent were illiterate. Over 53 per cent of the respondents were employed in the job market, while around 1 per cent was unemployed. Some 45 per cent of the respondents were not active in the employment market as they were pensioners, students, housewife, etc. About 8 per cent of the respondents were farmers and about 7 per percent worked as government servants while 7 per cent were involved in small businesses or retail sales. Some 46 per cent of the respondents had monthly household income of less than RM1,000; 29 per cent earned between RM1,001 to RM2,000; 15 per cent received between RM2,001 to RM3,000 and about 9 per cent took home RM3,000 and above. This shows that almost half of the respondents’ household income is below the state average for Terengganu which was RM1,984 in 2004 (Economic Planning Unit, 2004).

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The average household statistics for the state of Terengganu was around 4.5-5 in 2004 (Economic Planning Unit, 2004). The survey shows that the average household size of the respondents interviewed coincided with the state average at 5. Table 0.2: Socioeconomic profiles of egg consumers

Characteristics Frequency Per cent Gender 245 100.0

Male 127 51.8 Female 118 48.2

Age 245 100.0

Under 20 9 3.7 20-29 44 18.0 30-39 36 14.7 40-49 49 20.0 50-59 60 24.5 Above 60 47 19.2

Education4 245 100.0None 17 6.9 Primary school 67 27.3 SRP/PMR 32 13.1 SPM 88 35.9 Certificate 15 6.1 Diploma 18 7.3 Degree 8 3.3

Occupation 245 100.0Farmer/agriculture worker 19 7.8 Government servant 17 6.9 Small business owner/retail sales 16 6.5 Self employed 13 5.3 Technician 9 3.7 Clerical 9 3.7 Construction worker 8 3.3 Shop and market sales worker 8 3.3 Teaching post 5 2.0 Factory worker 4 1.6 Professional and manager 3 1.2 Others 20 8.2 Unemployed 3 1.2 Do not work (e.g. pensioner, student, housewife) 111 45.3

Household income 245 100.00-1,000 113 46.1 1,001-2,000 72 29.4 2,001-3,000 37 15.1 3,000 and above 23 9.4

Average household size 5

4 Classification follows Department of Statistics Census 2000. Certificate includes certificates obtained from any trade and technical skills institution college or polytechnic prior to a degree qualification. Diploma includes diplomas obtained from college or polytechnic prior to a degree qualification. Degree includes all levels of first degree or advanced diploma or its equivalent.

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4.1.2 Consumption patterns and behaviour of marine turtle egg consumers In order to identify the main consumers of marine turtle eggs and to understand their consumption pattern, this survey focussed solely on those that had consumed eggs before. In other words, of the 396 households approached by the survey team, 245 had experienced eating marine turtle eggs in the past. Hence, the results of the survey reflect the responses of the 245 households interviewed. Table 4.2 highlights the consumption pattern and behaviour of turtle egg consumers. Close to one-fifth (18 per cent) of the respondents consumed it fairly recently, i.e., during the month or one month before this interview was conducted. Over a quarter of them (25 per cent) ate turtle eggs a year ago and more than half (57 per cent) took it a few years ago. However it appears that marine turtle egg was not part of the regular diet of most of the respondents as around 81 per cent of them consumed only one to two times last year or in the previous year. Only approximately 4 per cent of the respondents revealed that on average they ate marine turtle eggs almost five or six times last year/previous year. The average consumption was 1.8 (s.d. 0.9) last year. Almost half (47 per cent) of the respondents replied that they usually took one egg at a time while slightly over one-third (35 per cent) of them took two eggs in one sitting. The average number of eggs eaten at one time was 1.8 (s.d. 1.0). In all, 82 per cent of the respondents took 1 to 2 eggs at a time. The findings suggest that the majority of the consumers in the study areas do not eat marine turtle eggs on a regular basis and when they do, they take only a small quantity at one time. Such consumption pattern is supported by respondents’ replies on the quantity of eggs they purchased. Over half (57 per cent) and about one-third (33 per cent) of the respondents bought between 1 to 5 eggs and between 6 to 10 eggs at one time, respectively. Less than one per cent of them bought more than 20 eggs in one go. The average eggs bought at one time among the respondents was 7.1 with a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 30 eggs. Eating turtle eggs seems to be not just an individual affair (33 per cent) and experience but involves other members of the family as well (67 per cent). It is quite common that spouses and children of the respondents consume eggs together. Other family members though relatively less common include parents and brothers and/or sisters of the respondents. The most common reason cited by the respondents on why they consumed marine turtle eggs was ‘delicacy’. Since it is a delicacy, or ‘fine food’, understandably the egg was not consumed in a regular manner or in large quantity. There is also the issue of affordability. One marine turtle egg could cost around RM2.50 in Kuala Terengganu. Given this price level, it might be too expensive for the egg to be part of regular diet as over 75 per cent of the respondents received household income of no more than RM2,000 per month. The second most common reason was ‘just like it’, followed by ‘source of protein’ and ‘out of curiosity’ for first timers. Contrary to the common perception, tradition, medication, cravings and aphrodisiac reasons appear to be not the main reasons why people consume the egg as only a small number of the respondents indicated thus.

Table 0.3: Consumption patterns and behaviour of turtle egg consumption

Consumption patterns and behaviour Frequency Per cent Last consumed eggs 245 100.0

This week 2 0.8 Last week 7 2.9 Last month 34 13.9

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Last year 62 25.3 Few years ago 140 57.1

Number of times consumed eggs previous year 241 100.0 1-2 times 194 80.5 3-4 times 38 15.8 5-6 times 9 3.7 Average times consumed eggs 1.8 (s.d. 0.9)

Number of turtle eggs eaten at one time 242 100.0 1 114 47.1 2 84 34.7 3 22 9.1 4 12 5.0 5 8 3.3 6 2 0.8 Average eggs eaten at one time 1.8 (s.d. 1.0)

Total eggs bought at one time 218 100.0 1-5 125 57.3 6-10 71 32.6 11-15 6 2.8 16-20 14 6.4 Above 20 2 0.9 Average eggs bought at one time 7.1 (s.d. 4.9)

Family members consuming turtle eggs 242 100.0 Self 80 33.1 Including other family members 162 66.9

Reasons for consuming turtle eggs As medication 12 4.9 Delicacy 178 72.7 Source of protein 51 20.8 Curious 25 10.2 Aphrodisiac 6 2.4 “Suka-suka” (“just like it”) 104 42.4 Tradition 3 1.2 Others 17 6.9

Analysing the total eggs bought at one time by gender, age group, education and income shows the following (Table 4.3):

• In general, males and females bought eggs in similar proportions. • The majority of respondents below 30 and above 50 bought between 1-5 eggs in total

at one time whereas a higher percentage of respondents between the 30-49 age groups bought more eggs at one time.

• There is no clear pattern of the purchase of eggs at one time with the level of education though a higher percentage of respondents with certificate and above qualification bought 6-10 eggs at every one time compared to the other groups where the majority bought 1-5 eggs.

• Higher income groups tend to buy more eggs at one time compared to the lower income groups.

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Table 0.4: Cross tabulation of total eggs bought at one time with gender, age group, education and income group

Total eggs bought at every one time 1-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 > 20 Total n Gender Male 58.9% 31.8% 1.9% 7.5% 0.0% 100.0% 107 Female 55.9% 33.3% 3.6% 5.4% 1.8% 100.0% 111 Total 57.3% 32.6% 2.8% 6.4% 0.9% 100.0% 218 Age Group Below 30 58.8% 35.3% 2.0% 3.9% 0.0% 100.0% 51 30-49 48.8% 41.3% 2.5% 6.3% 1.3% 100.0% 80 Above 50 64.4% 23.0% 3.4% 8.0% 1.1% 100.0% 87 Total 57.3% 32.6% 2.8% 6.4% 0.9% 100.0% 218 Education Primary school/no schooling 58.8% 29.4% 2.9% 8.8% 0.0% 100.0% 68 Secondary school 59.8% 30.4% 2.7% 5.4% 1.8% 100.0% 112 Certificate and above 47.4% 44.7% 2.6% 5.3% 0.0% 100.0% 38 Total 57.3% 32.6% 2.8% 6.4% 0.9% 100.0% 218 Income Group Below RM1,000 60.8% 28.9% 2.1% 6.2% 2.1% 100.0% 97 RM1,000-RM2,000 63.6% 30.3% 4.5% 1.5% 0.0% 100.0% 66 RM2,001-RM3,000 50.0% 40.6% 0.0% 9.4% 0.0% 100.0% 32 Above RM3,000 36.4% 40.9% 4.5% 18.2% 0.0% 100.0% 22 Total 57.6% 32.3% 2.8% 6.5% 0.9% 100.0% 217

4.1.3 Marine turtle egg consumers’ perception on turtle population Generally marine turtle egg consumers in Kuala Terengganu are aware that marine turtle populations are dwindling (Table 4.4). Over 90 per cent of the respondents were aware of this trend while only about 10 per cent claimed to have no knowledge about it. However, it appeared that not all of them were really convinced that marine turtle egg consumption contributed towards turtle population decline. When asked about the reasons for the population decline, most of the respondents replied that it was a result of turtles being caught in fishing nets/fishing activities. The second most common answer was habitat destruction. Consumption of marine turtle eggs only came in third. A small percentage of the respondents perceived that foreign fishermen could be the cause. A small fraction of respondents is of the opinion it was due to turtle migration. Table 0.5: Consumers’ perception on turtle populations

Consumers’ perception Frequency Per cent Aware that turtle population is declining 244 100.0

Yes 220 90.2 No 24 9.8

Main reasons for turtle decline

Habitat destruction 210 85.7 Consumption of eggs 93 38.0 Caught in fishing nets/fishing activities 224 91.4 Others (e.g. foreign fishers, migration etc.) 18 7.3

The statistical chi-square test shows that there is no difference in knowledge of turtle population declining between male and female (Table 4.5). 97.6 percent of the age group of

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30-49 said that they know the turtle population is declining. The percentage of eldest group (age 50 and above) who knows turtle population is declining is less than the younger group. The chi-square test shows that there is difference in knowledge of turtle population declining across the age group. The chi-square test also demonstrates that there is difference in knowledge of turtle population declining across the education group. 100 percent of the certificate holder and above know the turtle population is declining whereas only 82.1 percent of the respondents with primary school or no schooling know the turtle population is declining.

Table 0.6: Chi-square tests on turtle population decline with gender, age group and education

Do you know the turtle population is declining?

Yes No Total n Gender 1 Male 92.9% 7.1% 100.0% 126 Female 87.3% 12.7% 100.0% 118 Total 90.2% 9.8% 100.0% 244 Age Group 2 Below 30 90.6% 9.4% 100.0% 53 30 - 49 97.6% 2.4% 100.0% 85 50 and above 84.0% 16.0% 100.0% 106 Total 90.2% 9.8% 100.0% 244 Education 3 Primary school/ no schooling 82.1% 17.9% 100.0% 84 Secondary school 92.4% 7.6% 100.0% 119 Certificate and above 100.0% 100.0% 41 Total 90.2% 9.8% 100.0% 244

Note 1: Not significant at α = 0.05 Note 2: Significant at α = 0.05. P value = 0.007 Note 3: Significant at α = 0.05. P value = 0.004 Table 4.6 provides an overview of the response to the knowledge of declining populations and increase in price of eggs. Majority (63 per cent) of the respondents expressed that they would stop eating marine turtle eggs if they knew that egg consumption contributes towards the dwindling of marine turtle population. But more than one-third (37 per cent) of the respondents said they would continue consuming the eggs even though such appetite could cause the decline of marine turtle populations. They cited a few reasons to justify their continued appetite for marine turtle eggs. Firstly, egg consumption would not cause population decline; secondly, perhaps in support of the first reason, marine turtle eggs were still easily available; and thirdly, marine turtle eggs contain more nutrients. A small number of the respondents cited that they would continue eating eggs as they are delicious and because they like the taste of it. Only a few said that they would continue eating due to tradition. Others indicated the availability of the eggs or if bought by others and two respondents noted that they would continue eating due to pregnancy cravings. Nevertheless, most of the respondents appeared to be price sensitive. About 82 per cent of them would stop consuming marine turtle egg should its price double from the current rate of around RM2 to RM4. A relatively small percentage of the respondents (18 per cent) expressed otherwise. But even this group of the respondents would cut down the intake on marine turtle egg should the price doubled as indicated by over 73 per cent of them. Section

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3.1.6 includes a further analysis of the characteristics of respondents that would continue to consume eggs even if price doubled. Table 4.7: Response to knowledge of declining populations and increase in price of eggs

Responses Frequency Per cent Will continue consuming eggs even if aware of its contribution to turtle decline 245 100.0

Yes 91 37.1 No 154 62.9

Reasons for continuing to eat eggs

Turtle eggs contain more nutrients 18 7.3 Turtle egg consumption is not one of the causes of population decline

45 18.4

Turtle eggs are still easily available 24 9.8 Delicious 15 6.1 “Suka-suka” (“just like it”) 11 4.4 Tradition 4 1.6 Available (given by others) 9 9.9 Pregnancy cravings 2 2.2

Will continue consuming even if price doubled 245 100.0Yes 45 18.4 No 200 81.6

Will continue consuming as much even if price doubled 45 100.0Yes 12 26.7 No 33 73.3

4.1.4 Source of eggs Only a small number of the respondents confirmed that they bought turtle eggs directly from egg collectors, indicating there are intermediaries along the supply chain (Table 4.7). One of the major intermediaries is obviously the marine turtle egg sellers at the local markets, as a significantly larger number of the respondents revealed that they bought turtle eggs from local markets (pasar). Among those that bought turtle eggs from pasar, an overwhelmingly 91 per cent said they bought them from Pasar Payang, the main local market in Kuala Terengganu. Trailing far behind is another local market named Chabang Tiga (about seven per cent). Most of the respondents that bought from licensed egg collectors purchased them near the local beaches. A modest number of the respondents indicated that they purchased the eggs from other sources. About 5 per cent of the respondents stated they obtained turtle eggs from restaurants and 6 per cent from family and friends while 1 per cent collected the eggs themselves. There were records that eggs were obtained from offshore islands of Terengganu such as Pulau Redang and Perhentian (4 per cent of the respondents mentioned these islands). It is worth noting that some of the respondents indicated that they obtained their marine turtle egg supplies from sources outside of Terengganu, i.e., about two per cent of them said they

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got the supplies from Sabah and Sarawak and one per cent of the respondents sourced turtle eggs from Indonesia. The findings suggest that marine turtle egg collectors (mostly part-timers) usually sell their harvests to egg sellers (mostly hawkers who sell more than just marine turtle eggs) at the local markets in Kuala Terengganu. Pasar Payang is notably the major local distribution centre of the egg. Local restaurants have also been noted as one of the market intermediaries, though it is not clear if they source the eggs directly from egg collectors or from egg sellers or both. Among the local restaurants, Mat Binjai in Kuala Terengganu was repeatedly mentioned by some of the respondents. This is no surprise as this particular restaurant is well known among the locals and tourists for selling turtle eggs as part of the dish. Though not prevalent, the survey results have shown that turtle eggs were sourced from marine turtle reserves on Terengganu offshore, such as Pulau Redang and Perhentian. The results also support the perception that some of the marine turtle eggs from Sabah and Sarawak as well as from Indonesia have found their way into the markets in Terengganu. Table 4.8: Sources of eggs

Sources of eggs Frequency Per cent Places to Buy Turtle Eggs

Market (pasar) 196 80.0 Egg Collector 23 9.3 Others 44 1.7

Name of markets/places Pasar Payang 178 90.8 Batu Enam 2 1.0 Chabang Tiga 13 6.6 Dungun 4 2.0 Others (Pasar Panir, Bukit Besar, Rantau Abang) 4 2.0

Others Pulau Redang and Perhentian 10 4.1 Family members 5 2.0 Friends 10 4.1 Restaurant (e.g. Mat Binjai) 12 4.9 Self-collected 3 1.2 Sabah, Sarawak 5 2.0 Indonesia 2 0.8

4.1.5 Communication avenues and interests in protecting marine turtles The respondents ranked television as the most common communication avenue that they depended on for news and updates, followed by newspapers (Table 4.8). Mosque talks and village talks were also ranked as common communication avenues. Radio (99 percent of those who recorded other sources) was also an important avenue. A high percentage (97 per cent) of the respondents had never been exposed to any kind of turtle conservation awareness activities/materials prior to this survey. Only three per cent of the respondents have had such an exposure before. Some examples of turtle conservation activities cited by the respondents include beach clean-up activities and turtle courses. The types of

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conservation programs that appealed most to the respondents were community programs/activities, followed by ecotourism activities and research activities. A small portion of the respondents viewed knowing about fishing regulations as a useful conservation tool for the communities. About 44 per cent of the respondents cited that they are not interested in conservation programmes.

Table 0.9: Communication avenues and interests in conservation initiatives

Communication avenues and interests Frequency Per cent Main communications avenues

Newspaper 198 80.8 Watch TV 241 98.4 Internet 51 20.8 Village Talks 114 46.5 Mosque Talks 150 61.2 Others (e.g. radio, friends etc) 126 51.4

Exposure to turtle conservation activities 245 100.0 Yes (e.g. beach clean-up, turtle courses) 8 3.3 No 237 96.7

Interests in conservation programmes Community programs/activities 128 52.2 Research activities 91 37.1 Ecotourism activities 107 43.7 Others 6 2.4 No 108 44.1

The consumers responded positively to the idea of local community involvement in conservation and education and awareness building as the two most effective ways to reduce turtle egg consumption (Table 4.9). A proportion of the respondents suggested banning turtle egg consumption while a small number of them highlighted the need for enforcement and increasing the price of turtle eggs to reduce turtle consumption. Some respondents had no opinion on the subject and did not agree to the reduction of turtle egg consumption.

Table 0.10: Suggestions to reduce turtle egg consumption

Suggestions Frequency Per cent More education and awareness 209 85.3 Ban of turtle egg consumption 69 28.1 Local community involvement in conservation 205 83.7 Enforcement 3 1.2 Increase price of turtle eggs 6 2.4 Others 5 2.0 No opinion 17 6.9 Do not agree to reduce turtle egg consumption 6 2.4

4.1.6 Further analysis: Consistent and one-off consumers Based on the background survey findings above, further analysis was carried out to obtain the profiles and characteristics of consumers who are consistent turtle egg consumers and those who are one-off consumers. This provides a better understanding of which groups would respond to various types of information

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Consistent egg consumers are defined as respondents who would continue eating turtle eggs even though the price of the eggs are doubled. Most of these respondents (except two) would also continue eating turtle eggs even if they knew that turtle egg consumption is one of the main reasons contributing to the decline of turtle population. One-off turtle egg consumers are those who eat eggs out of curiosity. Their motivation to eat turtle eggs is not tied to more significant reasons such as the egg consumption for medicinal purposes or as a traditional custom. Hence, they may be more willing to change their behaviour if they are a recipient of effective communication and education programmes. The analysis will cover the features of the groups’ socioeconomic characteristics before presenting the results of their behaviour and perceptions. More females (11.9 per cent) than males would consume eggs out of curiosity (Table 4.10). Similarly, the younger age groups (22.6 per cent) are also more likely to consume eggs out of curiosity. In general, those who have a higher level of education and those with income less than RM1,000 were more likely to consume eggs out of curiosity.5 More males (40.9 percent) than females (33.1 percent) will continue consuming eggs even if they are aware of how it contributes to the decline of turtles. (Table 4.11). The oldest group will continue consuming eggs compared to the younger groups of respondents, even if they know how their behaviour affects the turtle population. However the chi square test shows there is no statistical difference across the gender and age group in consuming eggs.

Table 4.0.11: Cross tabulation of respondents that would consume eggs out of curiosity by gender, age group, education and income level

Consume eggs out of curiosity n Gender Male 8.7 11 Female 11.9 14 Total 10.2 25 Age Group Below 30 22.6 12 30 – 49 4.7 4 50 and above 8.4 9 Total 10.2 25 Education Primary school/no schooling 7.1 6 Secondary school 10.1 12 Certificate and above 16.7 7 Total 10.2 25 Income Group Below RM1,000 14.3 16 RM1,000-RM2,000 8.3 6 RM2,001-RM3,000 8.1 3 Above RM3,000 0.0 0 Total 10.2 25

The chi-square test shows that there is difference in egg consumption patterns based on education levels.. The percentage of non educated or primary schooling group that will 5 Chi-square tests were not carried out due to the limited sample within the group of respondents that consumed eggs out of curiosity.

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continue consuming eggs is higher than the other groups even if they aware of how it affects turtle populations. Though the chi-square tests do not show any statistical difference between decision to consume and income groups, higher percentages of the lower income group would continue consuming turtle eggs.

Table 0.12: Chi-square tests - decision to continue consuming eggs even if aware of its contribution to turtle decline with gender, age group, education and income levels

Will continue consuming eggs even if aware of its

contribution to turtle decline Yes No Total n Gender 1 Male 40.9% 59.1% 100.0% 127 Female 33.1% 66.9% 100.0% 118 Total 37.1% 62.9% 100.0% 245 Age Group 1 Below 30 28.3% 71.7% 100.0% 53 30 - 49 36.5% 63.5% 100.0% 85 50 and above 42.1% 57.9% 100.0% 107 Total 37.1% 62.9% 100.0% 245 Education 2 Primary school/no schooling 48.8% 51.2% 100.0% 84 Secondary school 31.7% 68.3% 100.0% 120 Certificate and above 29.3% 70.7% 100.0% 41 Total 37.1% 62.9% 100.0% 245 Income Group 1 Below RM1,000 43.8% 56.3% 100.0% 112 RM1,000-RM2,000 25.0% 75.0% 100.0% 72 RM2,001-RM3,000 40.5% 59.5% 100.0% 37 Above RM3,000 39.1% 60.9% 100.0% 23 Total 37.3% 62.7% 100.0% 224

Note 1: Not significant at α = 0.05 Note 2: Significant at α = 0.05. P value = 0.023 Most of the males will continue consuming eggs compared to females even if the price doubled,(Table 4.12). Most of the oldest group will not continue to consume turtle eggs if price doubled. This may due to the fact most of them are retired and their income is limited. The percentage of respondents with certificate and above who will continue consuming eggs even if the price doubled ,is relatively high compared to other groups. This may due to the fact that the income of this group is higher than the other groups as reflected by percentage distribution among income groups though the chi-square test shows no statistical difference. Table 0.13: Chi-square tests – decision to continue consuming eggs even if price doubled with gender, age group, education and income levels

Will continue consuming eggs

even if price doubled Yes No Total n Gender 1 Male 20.5% 79.5% 100.0% 127 Female 16.1% 83.9% 100.0% 118 Total 18.4% 81.6% 100.0% 245

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Age Group 1 Below 30 20.8% 79.2% 100.0% 53 30 – 49 22.4% 77.6% 100.0% 85 50 and above 14.0% 86.0% 100.0% 107 Total 18.4% 81.6% 100.0% 245 Education 1 Primary school/no schooling 16.7% 83.3% 100.0% 84 Secondary school 18.3% 81.7% 100.0% 120 Certificate and above 22.0% 78.0% 100.0% 41 Total 18.4% 81.6% 100.0% 245 Income Group 1 Below RM1,000 15.2% 84.8% 100.0% 112 RM1,000-RM2,000 15.3% 84.7% 100.0% 72 RM2,001-RM3,000 27.0% 73.0% 100.0% 37 Above RM3,000 30.4% 69.6% 100.0% 23 Total 18.4% 81.6% 100.0% 244

Note 1: Not significant at α = 0.05 Tables 4.13 to 4.16 highlight key behaviour and perception of consistent consumers (103 respondents). An extra column is provided to show the percentages compared to the overall respondents (245 respondents). In terms of reasons for egg consumption among consistent consumers (Table 4.13), the properties of turtle eggs as a delicacy was one of the main reasons for 78 per cent of respondents followed by 47 per cent that just liked the taste, similar to the overall respondents. About 9 per cent of the consistent consumers consume turtle eggs due to their medicinal properties compared to 5 per cent of the overall respondents. It is important to note that most of the consistent consumers continue eating eggs even though they are aware that turtle populations are on the decline because they are not convinced that turtle egg consumption is one of the main reasons for the decline (48.4 per cent) and also because they observed that turtle eggs are still easily available (26.4 per cent).

Table 4.14: Reasons for egg consumption among consistent consumers

Consistent consumers Overall respondents

Reasons for consuming turtle eggs Frequency Per cent Per cent As medication 9 8.7 4.9 Delicacy 80 77.7 72.7 Source of protein 13 12.6 20.8 Curious 1 1.0 10.2 Aphrodisiac 3 2.9 2.4 “Suka-suka” (“just like it”) 48 46.6 42.4 Tradition 2 1.9 1.2 Exclusive and delicious 2 1.9 0.8 Pregnancy cravings 3 2.9 1.2 Reasons for continuing consumption Turtle eggs contain more nutrients 17 18.7 19.8 Turtle egg consumption is not one of the reasons for population decline 44 48.4 49.5

Turtle eggs are easily available 24 26.4 26.4 Tradition 4 4.4 4.4

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Delicious 15 16.5 16.5 "Suka-suka" ("just like it") 11 12.1 12.1 Available (given by others) 9 9.9 9.9 Pregnancy cravings 2 2.2 2.2

About 75 per cent of the consistent consumers purchase turtle eggs from the market while the remaining 16 per cent purchase from egg collectors and other sources (23.3 per cent). These other sources include restaurants especially Mat Binjai (7.8 per cent), family members6 and friends (5.8 per cent), Sabah and Sarawak (3.9 per cent), self-collected7 (2.9 per cent), Pulau Redang (1.9 per cent) and Indonesia (1.9 per cent). Out of those who purchased turtle eggs from markets, an overwhelming 89.6 per cent purchased from Pasar Payang. The other markets mentioned included Batu Enam, Chabang Tiga, Dungun, Rantau Abang and Bukit Besar.

Table 0.15: Source of eggs among consistent consumers

Consistent consumers Sources of eggs Frequency Per cent Places to Buy Turtle Eggs

Market (pasar) 77 74.8 Egg Collector 16 15.5 Others 24 23.3

Name of markets/places Pasar Payang 69 89.6 Batu Enam 2 2.6 Chabang Tiga 2 2.6 Dungun 4 5.2 Others ( Bukit Besar, Rantau Abang) 3 3.9

Others Pulau Redang 2 1.9 Family members & friends 6 5.8 Restaurant (e.g. Mat Binjai) 8 7.8 Self-collected 3 2.9 Sabah, Sarawak 4 3.9 Indonesia 2 1.9

Similar to the overall respondents, the main communication avenue for almost all of the consistent consumers is through television (97 per cent). It is interesting to note that about 83 per cent of the hard core consumers considered mosque talks as one of their main communication avenues compared to the overall response among the total respondents (61 per cent). In addition, village talks and radio were considered important communication avenues as highlighted by 68 and 61 per cent of the consistent consumers respectively. More consistent consumers seem to be interested in conservation activities compared to the overall respondents. These were observed for community programs, research and eco-tourism activities. 6 One respondent stated that he obtains turtle eggs from his father who is an egg collector. 7 One respondent stated that he collects turtle eggs from Pulau Bidong.

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Table 0.16: Communication avenues and interests in conservation among consistent consumers

Consistent consumers Overall respondents

Communication avenues and interests Frequency Per cent Per cent Main communications avenues

Newspaper 77 74.8 80.8 Watch TV 100 97.1 98.4 Internet 22 21.4 20.8 Village Talks 70 68.0 46.5 Mosque Talks 85 82.5 61.2 Radio 63 61.2 42.9 Others (friends, societies) 2 1.9 8.6

Interests in conservation programmes Community programs/activities 64 62.1 52.2 Research activities 47 45.6 37.1 Ecotourism activities 57 55.3 43.7 Others 4 3.9 2.4 No 34 33.0 44.1

When asked for their suggestions on ways to reduce turtle egg consumption, only 18 per cent of the consistent consumers agreed to the ban of turtle egg consumption compared to 28 per cent among overall respondents. Local community involvement in conservation and education and awareness programs were some of the important initiatives that they suggested. About 4 per cent stated that they do not agree to the banning of turtle egg consumption as they would want to continue eating eggs while 11 per cent had no opinion. (AA’s comment: Why?)

Table 0.17: Suggestions to reduce turtle egg consumption among consistent consumers

Consistent consumers Overall respondents

Suggestions Frequency Per cent Per cent More education and awareness 77 74.8 85.3 Ban of turtle egg consumption 19 18.4 28.1 Local community involvement in conservation 84 81.6 83.7 Enforcement 2 1.9 1.2 Increase price of turtle eggs 4 3.9 2.4 No opinion 11 10.7 6.9 Do not agree to reduce turtle egg consumption 4 3.9 2.4

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5. Trade routes and profiles of egg collectors and sellers: This section will capture findings on the potential trade routes of turtle eggs in Malaysia and surrounding countries. It included a review of newspaper and internet sources and at the same time interviews with relevant agencies. Interviews with turtle egg collectors and sellers especially at the chosen sites in Terengganu and Melaka provide important verification of the literature review on the trade routes. This section will summarize the overall findings of this research.

5.1 Overview based on newspaper, internet sources and interviews

This section aims to provide an indicative overview of the trade routes of turtle eggs based on review of newspaper reports and internet sources from 2000. Relevant information was also validated through interviews with various agencies such as the Sabah Parks, Sarawak Forestry Corporation and DOF Malaysia, Putrajaya. This Section highlights the illegal turtle egg trade routes that have been reported between Malaysia-Indonesia and Malaysia-Philippines. The major trade routes identified are: Southern Philippines - Sabah Route

a) West Kalimantan - Sarawak Route b) Sabah/Indonesia/Philippine - Terengganu Routes c) Natuna Region - Malaysia and Singapore Routes

5.1.1 Southern Philippines - Sabah Route

Some of the turtle eggs legally harvested in the Philippine Turtle Islands, namely Boan, Langaan, Lihiman, Great Bakkungan, Taganak were said to be smuggled into Sandakan, Sabah for sale in the local markets there.8 There was also report suggesting that the supply of fresh turtle eggs usually came from Tabanak, one of the islands across the Philippine border.9 Among the usual landing sites known for turtle eggs smuggled from the Philippines include the shore of Kampung Forest area. 10 Other landing points included Sungai Kanibungan river mouth in the Pitas district in north Sabah.11

Turtle egg smuggling and selling activities were said to be carried out during night time by foreigners and IMM13 holders (a pass issued to Filipino refugees displaced by war in the Philippines to enable them to stay in Sabah).12 Speedboats were used to transport turtle eggs from southern Philippines to Sabah. Turtle eggs were usually placed in gunnysacks or plastic bags during the transportation process.13 Most of the illegal turtle egg sellers were foreigners and IMM13 holders.14

8 Under the Administrative Order No. 33, Series of 1982, Ministry of Natural Resources of the Philippines, egg collection is strictly prohibited at the Baguan Island Marine Turtle Sanctuary (one of the six the Philippine Turtle Islands). However, 60% of the egg production in the five other Philippine Turtle Islands is legally harvested for local trade and consumption (source: http://www.oneocean.org/ambassadors/track_a_turtle/hazards/) (assessed 23 December 2008). 9 Daily Express, Malaysia, 29 December 2004 10 Daily Express, Malaysia, 27 September 2008 and The Star, Malaysia, 3 November 2008 11 The Star, Malaysia, 20 September 2007 12 Daily Express, Malaysia, 3 June 2003 13 Daily Express, Malaysia, 3 November 2008 and 3 June 2003 14 Daily Express, Malaysia, 3 November 2008

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Illegal egg collections are known to occur around Sandakan, Semporna and Jambongan while some claim that eggs have been smuggled in from Philippines too15. Locals, mainly of Filipino descendent are thought to be the main egg collectors and sellers in Sabah and the sources of eggs are suspected from Turtle Islands and Semporna. Sandakan is the chosen destination for turtle eggs because of its proximity to the maritime boundary with the Philippines 16 and the existence of a sizeable turtle egg consuming population there. Customers indicated include local housewives as well as those coming from outside the municipality.17 The common outlets for illegal turtle egg sellers include the Sandakan central market,18 the Old Slipway19 and Jalan Pryer.20

Sandakan may not be the final market for all the turtle eggs. There was an incidence in which the airport police at Sandakan Airport seized 14 boxes of turtle eggs onboard a cargo plane.21 Turtle eggs have been found being smuggled from east coast of Sabah, probably from Sandakan, into the Filipino Market located in downtown Kota Kinabalu using four-wheel drive vehicles.22 Most illegal turtle eggs sellers at the Filipino Market were said to be foreigners and IMM13 holders, who might once be active at a market in Kota Belud in north western part of Sabah.23 Consumers from as far as Brunei have been reported to have bought turtle eggs from the Filipino Market in Kota Kinabalu. Turtle eggs from Kota Kinabalu were suspected to have been smuggled into Brunei. 24 But there was no report suggesting that those eggs originated from southern Philippines.

5.1.2 West Kalimantan - Sarawak Route Illegal trade are known to occur in the Kuching Division especially border trading towns. The collectors and sellers are known to be residents of neighbouring country in Indonesia that brought in turtle eggs illegally. The smuggling of turtle eggs have been foiled at airports on very few occasions. 25 Turtle eggs were reportedly smuggled from West Kalimantan (Indonesia) into Sarawak (Malaysia) via the Tebedu (Sarawak) - Entikong (West Kalimantan) border crossing. In early 2001, over 2600 turtle eggs were confiscated by the Malaysian Customs officers at the border crossing on two separate occasions from express buses travelling from Pontianak to Kuching.26

ProFauna Indonesia, an Indonesian NGO working for the protection of wild animals and their habitats, in its study funded by World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) revealed that trade of hawksbill eggs happens freely at Entikong with an average of about 48,000 eggs sold per month. The study pointed out that most of the turtle egg buyers at Entikong were Malaysians. The price tag for one egg was RM1. Egg traders in Entikong were said to be aware of the stringent law enforced by the Malaysian Government to check turtle egg smuggling.27

The study suggests that smuggling of turtle eggs between Kalimantan and Sarawak happened mostly by sea and the major entry point in Sarawak was Tanjung Datu, the 15 Interview with Sabah Parks, Mr. Paul Basintal and Mr. Ludi Apin, 10 July 2008. 16 The Star, Malaysia, 20 September 2007 17 Daily Express, Malaysia, 29 December, 2004 18 Daily Express, Malaysia, 5 October 2005 19 Daily Express, Malaysia, 10 July, 2007 20 Daily Express, Malaysia, 21 April, 2008 21 Daily Express, Malaysia, 21 May 2003 22 Daily Express, Malaysia, 25 June 2004 23 Daily Express, Malaysia, 25 June 2004 24 Borneo Bulletin, Brunei, 18 June 2008 25 Interview with Sarawak Forestry Corporation, Mr. Oswald Braken Tisen, 14 July 2008. 26 Michael Megang, National Parks and Wildlife Division, Sarawak Forest Department, “International Trade in Wild Flora and Fauna: Case Studies from Tebedu, Sarawak” ( http://www.mered.org.uk/Hornbill/michael.htm) (accessed 23 December 2008) 27 Ibid

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westernmost point of the state. Turtle eggs were shipped via border route such as Temajuk in the Sambas District of West Kalimantan before being delivered by sea to Melano at Tanjung Datu. The shipment method was said to be simple, i.e. putting the eggs in open boxes to ensure constant supply of fresh air throughout the journey.28 During the study, a visit to the ground by a TRAFFIC researcher also found that illegal egg trade was also happening in Serikin, a border town near Kuching, Sarawak and Kalimantan. This was confirmed by seizures done by the Sarawak Forestry Corporation.

5.1.3 Sabah/Indonesia/Philippines – Terengganu Routes Over the past two years, there were several news reports suggesting that turtle eggs sold in Terengganu were smuggled from Sabah, Indonesia and the Philippines.29 It was reported that agents were involved in the supply of eggs from outside Terengganu and that most market traders there preferred to sell smuggled eggs.30 Some egg sellers in Terengganu that were interviewed validated that they obtained eggs from Sabah via middlemen. Turtle eggs that originated from Sabah are usually cheaper compared to eggs obtained from the islands and mainland Terengganu. Green turtle eggs, believed to be from Sabah and the Philippines, were sold at three main markets in Terengganu, namely at the Pasar Payang, Simpang 3 and Batu 6 markets. It was believed that turtle eggs from Sabah and the Philippines were smuggled to Peninsula Malaysia either by courier or post. The lack of restriction in the sale of turtle eggs in Terengganu, except for the Leatherback turtle eggs, was said to have encouraged smugglers to sell the eggs in the State.31 Though there was also information from the egg sellers in Terengganu that some of the eggs that were claimed from Sabah was also believed to be from the Philippines. However, no report verified this information.

5.1.4 Natuna - Malaysia and Natuna - Singapore Routes Turtle eggs collected from the Natuna Region, Riau Province in Indonesia were also sold to Malaysia and Singapore.32 However, information on this route is scant.

5.1.5 Kuala Lumpur - Chow Kit Market Based on the feedback from WWF-Malaysia to conduct a survey of Chow Kit Market, a visit to the wet market was carried out on 10 January 2009. 10 stalls were interviewed to find out whether turtle eggs were available. In general almost all of them could not provide any information on the sale of turtle eggs in the market. Three stalls selling eggs (chicken, duck, goose and quail) mentioned that they do not know while two stalls selling vegetables had no information. Two stalls selling traditional Malay medicine were also approached but do not know about the sale of turtle eggs in the market, similarly with two other stalls selling fruits. Only one stall that sell vegetables mentioned that he saw turtle eggs for sale around three to four years ago and said that the best place to go is Terengganu for turtle eggs. The rapid survey of the wet market could not ascertain if turtle eggs were sold at Chow Kit wet market. 28 ProFauna Indonesia, “Hawksbill Trade in Indonesia” (http://www.profauna.or.id/English/hawksbill-trade.html) (accessed 23 Dec 2008) 29 Daily Express, Malaysia, 26 September 2006 and BERNAMA, 16 April 2008 30 Daily Express, Malaysia, 26 September 2006 31 BERNAMA, 16 April 2008 32 ProFauna Indonesia, “Hawksbill Trade in Indonesia” (http://www.profauna.or.id/English/hawksbill-trade.html) (accessed 23 Dec 2008)

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5.2 Survey of Terengganu egg collectors Surveys of turtle egg collectors33 and egg sellers were conducted in Terengganu to get an idea of the trade routes for turtle eggs. The section on egg collectors present a brief profile, characteristics of egg collection patterns, markets for eggs and perception of egg collectors. As highlighted in the section on selection of study sites, the following areas were covered for the interviews with egg collectors: Pantai Kijal, Pantai Kemasek, Pantai Kerteh, Penarik, Sempadan, Kuala Dungun, Kuala Abang, Tahu Tiga, Jambu Bongkok, Kuala Baharu Utara and Kuala Tok Char. From the responses, the following areas were recorded to be areas or beaches where the turtle egg collectors interviewed operated: Pantai Kijal, Pantai Kerteh, Pantai Kemasek, Sempadan, Jambu Bongkok, Tahu Tiga, Kuala Abang, Kuala Tok Char, Kuala Baharu Utara, Teluk Batu and Kuala Dungun. Turtle egg collectors that were interviewed are highlighted with an asterisk (*) in Appendix 1.

5.2.1 Profile of egg collectors A total of eleven egg collectors were interviewed. Ten (or 91 per cent of the total) of them were males and one (9 per cent) was female (Table 5.1). Seventy per cent of the collectors were within the age group of 30 to 59 years, generally considered as economically active population, while the remaining 30 per cent were above 60 years old. The results show that the egg collectors are generally from the more senior generation group with 60 percent being 50 and above. Only one out of ten egg collectors collects turtle eggs as his main job. Thirty per cent of them were also farmers or agriculture workers, reflecting perhaps turtle egg collection was a form of off-farm employment to them. Some 20 per cent of the respondents were also small business owners or involved in retail sales; 20 per cent were drivers; 10 per cent were factory worker; 10 per cent were laborer and the rest were in a non-specified occupation in the private sector. Generally, the egg collectors interviewed were not financially well off. Half (50 per cent) of them had monthly household income of less than RM1,000 and the other half (50 per cent) had between RM1,001 to 2,000 suggesting that turtle egg collection is a means to supplement their household income. Eight out of 11 egg collectors provided responses for contribution of turtle egg collection to their income. Out of the eight respondents, one revealed that he did not earn from turtle egg collection as he did not bid for a license that year and another case that reported earning RM1, 700 a month from egg collection was treated as an outlier. Of the remaining six egg collectors, 67 per cent earned RM200 and less per month while around 16 percent earned RM300 and around 16% earned around RM400. On average the egg collectors earned around RM280 from turtle egg collection per month. Assuming that the average monthly household income of the respondents is around RM1, 000, egg collection would contribute around 28% of their household income for the months that egg collection is undertaken.

Table 0.1: Socioeconomic profiles of egg collectors

Characteristics Frequency Per cent Gender 11 100.0

Male 10 91.0 Female 1 9.0

Age 10 100.0 30-39 1 10.0 40-49 3 30.0

33 Only licensed egg collectors were interviewed.

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50-59 3 30.0 Above 60 3 30.0

Percentage collecting turtle eggs as main job 10 100.0 Yes 1 10.0 No 9 90.0

Occupation 11 100.0 Farmer/Agriculture worker 3 30.0 Factory worker 1 10.0 Small business owner/retail sales 2 20.0 Labourer 1 10.0 Driver 4 20.0 Private sector 10 10.0

Household income 10 100.0 0-1,000 5 50.0 1,001 - 2,000 5 50.0

How much does egg collection contribute to hh income 6 100.0

RM 200 and below 4 66.7 RM 400 1 16.7 RM 500 1 16.7

5.2.2 Characteristics of egg collectors Egg collection had been a long-term part-time profession for many of the respondents (Table 5.2). Sixty per cent of them had actually been involved in the profession for at least 10 years, with some (20 per cent of the total) of them for as long as 25 years to 40 years. This reflects the lifelong involvement of the respondents in turtle egg collection. The desire to earn extra income was the main reason behind marine turtle egg collection, as most number of the respondents indicated thus. The second most important reason cited was ‘interest’. Family tradition and own consumption were not among the most important reasons. This confirms the earlier suggestion that the decision to collect turtle eggs is a means to supplement their income. Collection of marine turtle eggs could go on for up to five to six months in a year, as confirmed by 75 per cent of the respondents. One-fifth (25 per cent) of the respondents performed such activity for a combined period of three months last year/previous year. About 43 per cent of the collectors collected less than 10 turtle nests per year while 43 percent collected between 11-20 turtle nests. Only one respondent (14 per cent) collected eggs from 30 nests a year. In the past, the egg collectors used to leave a few eggs in the nests to encourage regeneration of young turtles. However this practice was abandoned as turtle eggs became scarce and when demands for eggs increased. On average, an egg collector would collect around 13 nests in a year. It is a common belief among the collectors that a young turtle would produce around 70 eggs per nest while an older turtle would produce around 100 eggs per nest. Hence the local language known in identifying number of eggs collected are closely linked to the number of ‘young or old’ nests collected. Three respondents (27 per cent) noted that they collected young nests last year (altogether 9 young nests) while four respondents (36 per cent) respondent that they collected old nests (total of 23 old nests).

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Table 0.2: Characteristics of egg collectors and collections

Characteristics Frequency Per cent Years as egg collectors 10 100.0

1 – 5 4 40.0 6 -10 1 10.0 11 – 20 3 30.0 21 – 30 1 10.0 31 – 40 1 10.0

Main reasons for being egg collectors Family tradition 2 18.2 Important source of income 7 63.6 Own consumption 2 18.2 Interested 6 54.5 Near to turtle nesting beach 1 9.1

Months collecting turtle eggs 8 100.0 3 2 25.0 5 3 37.5 6 3 37.5

Total nests collected last year 7 100.0 6 2 28.6 7 1 14.3 13 2 28.6 17 1 14.3 30 1 14.3

5.2.3 Markets for turtle eggs It appeared to be a common practice for the egg collectors to sell turtle eggs to egg sellers at the markets or to friends and relatives (Table 5.3). It was also common for them to sell turtle eggs to the DOF. But rarely did they collect turtle eggs for own consumption. There were no respondents who sold turtle eggs to middle men.