LAHAD DATU: The sighting of a male orangutan crossing a road near the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) Research Centre in Lahad Datu has attracted significant interest on social media.
A 25-second video capturing this rare appearance was uploaded to WhatsApp by an individual who happened upon the scene by chance and the clip was later shared on Facebook by Info X.
"The discovery of this wild animal occurred approximately 13 kilometres from Lahad Datu town and 10 kilometres from the Tabin Wildlife Reserve.
"Its appearance in this area is highly unusual and is believed to be the first sighting of its kind here," stated Info X in the video.
The video has garnered over 22,000 views in less than 12 hours.
Many comments have poured in, with numerous netizens expressing concern for the orangutan's safety.
"Had to run away because its habitat was disturbed," commented user Win Gaulu.
User Mohd Sharoz also commented on the situation, noting that the orangutan's habitat had been destroyed by humans.
"Orangutans as large as these are old, they are massive and can no longer climb high," commented user Honsey Uding.
The Wildlife Department in Lahad Datu advised netizens not to approach any wildlife when spotted.