The Kedah Fisheries Department has verified that box jellyfish are present in the waters surrounding Langkawi. Director Sukri Deris stated that the current population level is moderate and does not warrant a full stoppage of recreational activities, though he acknowledged the animals still pose a significant danger to swimmers and fishermen.
Sukri explained that seasonal monsoon transitions and shifting sea currents likely carried the species, which ranges from Australia to Southeast Asia, closer to the shoreline. He added that heavy rainfall washing nutrients into the sea could also be attracting the jellyfish by increasing food sources near the coast.
The department is committed to ongoing monitoring of the situation and to collaborating with the District Disaster Committee on necessary measures. It also plans continuous public announcements to increase awareness of the potential hazards.
Sukri explained that seasonal monsoon transitions and shifting sea currents likely carried the species, which ranges from Australia to Southeast Asia, closer to the shoreline. He added that heavy rainfall washing nutrients into the sea could also be attracting the jellyfish by increasing food sources near the coast.
The department is committed to ongoing monitoring of the situation and to collaborating with the District Disaster Committee on necessary measures. It also plans continuous public announcements to increase awareness of the potential hazards.
