Written answer by Ministry of National Development on assessing impact of Batam’s escaped crocodiles on Singapore’s wildlife ecosystem and measures to protect residents, farms and business

Feb 4, 2025

6464. Ms Joan Pereira: To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment with regard to the escaped crocodiles from Batam (a) what measures are in place to identify and recover any of these animals that may enter Singapore waters; (b) how are our agencies working with our foreign counterparts on this matter; and (c) what additional safety measures have been activated for Singapore residents visiting Batam.

6507. Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim: To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether the Ministry has assessed the potential impact on Singapore’s biodiversity from the crocodiles that escaped from a farm in Batam, which may disrupt the local ecosystem by competing with or preying on native wildlife; (b) if so, what are the steps taken by NParks, together with other agencies, to protect the biodiversity of Singapore’s wildlife; and (c) what are the measures to protect the farms and businesses in the Lim Chu Kang, Neo Tiew and neighbouring areas.

Answers:

The National Parks Board (NParks) has assessed that the likelihood of the escaped crocodiles from Batam appearing in Singapore waters, including in Lim Chu Kang, Neo Tiew and their neighbouring areas, and the corollary biodiversity impact would be low. The crocodiles are unlikely to land in Singapore due to the more favourable habitats along their native coastlines, as compared to the extensive sea journey required to reach our shores. Nevertheless, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has issued an advisory to our coastal fish farms to exercise vigilance, and NParks is monitoring the situation with other agencies and stakeholders.

Should members of public encounter a crocodile, whether in Singapore or abroad, they should stay calm and back away. They should not approach, provoke, or feed the animal, and should heed warning signs and advisory notices posted in areas where crocodiles have been sighted. In the event of a sighting in Singapore, members of public should report the sighting to NParks, so that the risk to public safety can be monitored and managed. Singapore residents visiting the Batam coastal tourism areas may also wish to consult local staff and authorities for advice, especially if they plan to engage in water activities.