It was estimated that a total of 422,000 eggs were traded in Terengganu alone in 2007, indicating a trade volume that is two times higher than the number of green turtle nestings in the state. It has been reported that turtle eggs from outside the state were being sold at markets in Kuala Terengganu, writes WWF-Malaysia

The study team focused on consumer surveys in Terengganu where turtle egg consumption is widespread and eggs are openly sold in markets, to obtain a more in-depth understanding of turtle egg consumption patterns as well as the profile and perceptions of egg consumers.

“One of the contributing factors to the leatherback turtles’ disappearance from our shores is egg consumption. We wouldn’t want the same thing to happen to our green and hawksbill turtles,” said WWF-Malaysia Executive Director/CEO Dato’ Dr Dionysius Sharma.

Out of the 396 households surveyed, 245 (about 61%) are of Malay ethnicity and had consumed turtle eggs before. According to the results of the survey, people who eat turtle eggs come from all walks of life - irrespective of gender, age groups, professions, educational levels and income levels.