KOTA KINABALU (ANN/THE STAR) – Perdana Park in Tanjung Aru has been temporarily closed following concerns over the aggressive behavior of otters spotted in the area, prompting safety measures by park operators.
A notice, reading “Perdana Park is now closed for safety reasons until further notice,” has circulated on social media, accompanied by an official announcement from Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK).
The closure was initiated after an incident on Wednesday (September 11) in which a group of otters reportedly attacked a park visitor, raising safety concerns. Mayor Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah confirmed that DBKK has instructed the park operators to suspend activities while further investigations are conducted.
“The safety of visitors is our priority. We have taken swift action to close Perdana Park to prevent further incidents,” the Mayor said, urging the public to cooperate with the closure.
In the Wednesday incident, jogger Mariasella Harun was attacked by a group of otters while running along the park’s track. She was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for treatment. This is the first reported otter attack in Sabah, according to Sabah Wildlife Department Director Roland Niun.
“Otters are generally non-aggressive, but they may exhibit hostile behavior if they feel threatened or provoked,” Roland explained.
Otters, classified as protected wildlife under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, have been increasingly sighted in recreational parks across Kota Kinabalu, especially in areas close to rivers and lakes.
“As a precaution, we advise the public to avoid approaching the otters. Do not feed, pet, or provoke them, as this could lead to aggressive behavior or disease transmission,” Roland advised, stressing the importance of maintaining the well-being of the animals.
