M`SIA: UNUSUAL INFLUX OF SQUIDS NOT A TSUNAMI THREAT

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- The presence of a large number of squids
along the shores of Pantai Batu Rakit (Bukit Rakit Beach) in Terengganu (east
coast state in Peninsular Malaysia) over the past few days is not an indication
of a Tsunami threat said Malaysian Meteorology Department's Geophysics Unit
Director-General Dr Mohd Rozaidi Che Abas.

According to Dr Mohd Rozaidi the migration may have been due to a change in
the water temperature in the deep sea compared with warmer conditions along the
shores or due to a change in tide.

"An abundance of shrimps nearer to the shores may also be a factor for the
presence of squids which like to hunt them for food," he told Bernama here
Friday.

However, the situation will only be temporary, based on the changing water
temperature and tide, he said.

"Fishermen and tourists need not worry of the phenomena because it is safe
for all sea activities since there is no Tsunami threat. The Meteorology
Department will issue a warning if there was a Tsunami threat," he said.

On Sunday, residents along Pantai Batu Rakit were deeply concerned by the
presence of squids in large numbers along the shores when some residents had
linked their presence to an imminent Tsunami threat.

Batu Rakit is a small town within the District of Kuala Terengganu. It is
located some 15 kilometres to the north of the state capital. Within the town
area of Batu Rakit, there are numerous beaches that are within reach, mostly
between the fishing villages outside the town centre.


-- BERNAMA