Kuala nerus: The Terengganu Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) recorded approximately 1,700 snake capture cases throughout the state for the period of Jan 1 to Feb 24. Deputy Director (Operations) Major (PA) Mohd Hafiz Asikin said this figure shows an increase compared to the same period last year, which saw 1,100 cases, while for the entirety of 2025, the department handled 11,298 snake capture cases.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the increasingly significant rise in the number of snake captures over the last five years does not mean the reptile's population is increasing, but is instead influenced by various factors, especially weather changes. Mohd Hafiz explained that extreme weather conditions prompt snakes to leave their habitats in search of more suitable environments, often bringing them into closer proximity with human settlements.

He noted that Terengganu ranks among the top three states with the highest number of snake captures, alongside Selangor and Kedah. Commonly found snake species include the King Cobra, Monocled Cobra, and Reticulated Python, all categorized as venomous. The snake-catching operations cover diverse locations, including residential areas, construction sites, and mines.

Mohd Hafiz recounted a recent incident on the first day of fasting (Feb 19) in Kuala Nerus, where a three-year-old boy was sprayed with venom by a Spitting Cobra and was promptly taken to the hospital. He urged the public to maintain clean surroundings to deter snakes, which prefer damp or enclosed spaces such as wall cracks, sewage areas, and roof sections.

He advised that individuals should remain calm if bitten or sprayed with venom and seek immediate medical treatment. In cases of venom spray, such as from a Spitting Cobra, rinsing the affected area with clean, running water is recommended before heading to the hospital.