Python emerges from the sea at Tanjung Bidara beach
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 — A cheerful day at the popular Tanjung Bidara beach in Alor Gajah, turned chaotic when a reticulated python suddenly emerged from the sea yesterday afternoon.
The reptile, weighing nearly eight kilogrammes and measuring about two metres long, was spotted swimming close to bathers at around 12.15pm, sparking panic among visitors, according to Harian Metro.
Startled beachgoers quickly alerted members of the Civil Defence Force (APM) stationed at the lifeguard tower.
Alor Gajah district Civil Defence officer Captain (PA) Shahrulnizam Md Shah said two personnel rushed to the scene and detected the python about 25 metres from shore.
“Our men, Lance Corporal (PA) Muhammad Shahril Hizhar Anuawi and Private (PA) Muhammad Irsyad Dini Tawi, used a rescue surfboard and a snake hook to capture the animal to prevent any risk to the public,” he said when contacted.
He added that the capture operation took about 30 minutes due to the difficulty of tracking the snake’s swift movements in the water.
“This is the first time we’ve encountered a python at sea. It was a challenge because it swam and dived very quickly,” he said.
It is believed the python had emerged from undergrowth near the river mouth close to Kem Terendak, possibly in search of food.
Shahrulnizam also advised the public to remain vigilant when at the beach and to immediately report any sightings of wild animals to the authorities.
