Langkawi: The Kedah Fisheries Department (DOF) has confirmed the presence of box jellyfish in Langkawi waters, as reported over the past few days. Its director, Sukri Deris, stated that their presence this year has been detected at a very moderate level and is not at a scale that would completely halt recreational activities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sukri Deris emphasized that the presence of box jellyfish poses a danger to activities in these waters, whether recreational or commercial activities such as fishing. He mentioned that the species can be found in waters from around Australia up to Southeast Asia, and the monsoon transition may have carried them into Langkawi waters.

Sukri explained that changing sea current patterns might be pushing the species closer to shore. Additionally, large volumes of water discharged from land due to heavy rainfall carry nutrients into the sea, influencing the presence of box jellyfish near the coastline as food sources become more abundant in coastal areas when more freshwater flows into the sea.

He added that the DOF will continue to monitor the situation and collaborate with the relevant District Disaster Committee on any required comprehensive measures. Continuous public announcements will also be made to raise awareness of the dangers posed by jellyfish.