Ling (third left) and fellow hobbyists (from left) Tommy Shia, Andrea Shia and Ha How Yong with their unique reptilian pets.
SIBU (Sept 3): Having reptiles corresponding to snakes or lizards as pets is probably not a preferred pastime for most individuals, however for Jeannie Ling, she is drawn to those unique animals.
The 38-year-old has 5 snakes at home, comprising ball pythons and corn snakes.
“I began this pastime about three years in the past, however my buddies had began theirs earlier.
“Actually, retaining reptiles as a pastime is quite common in different nations and even within the peninsula, however such development has but to select up right here.
“All these snakes that we have are captive bred and non-venomous. They’re legally sourced from Peninsular Malaysia and come with permits from the relevant authorities,” she instructed thesundaypost right here.
Ling was met at an exhibition held in reference to the continuing Sarawak Children’s Festival at Pustaka Sibu right here.
It is noticed that there are three species of snakes being showcased on the exhibition, specifically ball python, corn snake and the Mexican Back Kingsnake.
“There are also other pet animals on show such as the bearded dragon, red-footed tortoise and black-tail prairie dog,” stated Ling, who works within the administrative line.
Asked concerning the sources of her information in dealing with snakes, Ling stated a lot of the data got here from her buddies in Peninsular Malaysia and another nations.
“I also watch YouTube and do Google searches for information, apart from buying books (on reptiles and exotic pets) from other countries as they are not available in Malaysia.”
Ling holding a python, one in all many reptiles featured on the exhibition.
On the exhibition, she stated it was the third time it was being held on the divisional library, with the important thing goal of offering details about reptiles to the general public.
“The local people also get to see these reptiles in real life,” she stated.
Nonetheless, Ling strongly suggested everybody to right away contact the related authorities such because the Civil Defence Force (APM) ought to they encounter reptiles corresponding to snakes at home.
“I typically hear about folks utilizing sizzling water or sticks to eliminate these reptiles. Please don’t try this.
“Call the authorities like APM in the event you need assistance, as they know the correct solution to deal with such reptiles.
“Also, please do not catch wild animals to keep them as pets. If you are interested in having exotic pets, please check with Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) for guidelines and assistance,” she suggested.
The two-day Sarawak Children’s Festival at Pustaka Sibu ends right now.
