LOCAL CUISINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN - MALAYSIAN FISHERMEN JUSTIFICATION FOR SEA TURTLE EGG CONSUMPTION

Sea turtles in Malaysia are severely endangered. Turtle egg consumption is considered to be one of the greatest treats for the local population. However, a basic question remained unveiled; how do fishermen consider egg consumption. This study tries to elucidate latent mindset of fishermen concerning egg consumption through a systematic qualitative survey. The study is based on interviews conducted in two fishery villages in Kerteh, Southern Terengganu. The study reveals that fishermen are little aware of hazard of egg consumption and they have their own logic to justify consumption. Their reluctance to curb egg consumption shows clear contrast with their keen awareness on hazard of fishing activity on sea turtles. This paper offers to highlights present status of sea turtle conservation in Terengganu. It also discusses fishing gear regulation and reliance on government. These pave a path to our main concern, justification of egg consumption.