Cultural significance of dugongs and their seagrass habitats to local communities and its relevance to conservation in Malaysia

Dugongs are culturally significant in many parts of its range. Dugong related seagrass habitats have been important for securing livelihoods to local communities. A scoping study of the cultural significance of dugongs and... [ view full abstract ]

Dugongs are culturally significant in many parts of its range. Dugong related seagrass habitats have been important for securing livelihoods to local communities. A scoping study of the cultural significance of dugongs and their seagrass habitats in Malaysia was conducted to understand better the links between communities and dugongs, communities and seagrasses and to apply this information to the conservation of the dugong and seagrass habitats. Information was gathered in Sabah and Johor, two states in Malaysia where the dugong is found. Mythologically, the local Ubian and Bajau are able to relate to the dugong emphasising that the dugong is like a human. Locally known as ‘duyung’ in Sabah, it was found that dugongs are traditionally used as a delicacy in feasts and weddings. It is traditionally eaten by local Ubian and Bajau in North Sabah (Banggi and Kudat). Dugong products such as the tusks and bones are being used in the treatment of various ailments such as asthma, back pains and shock. The Chinese in Kudat, Sabah are known to fashion dugong tusks into pipes for smoking claiming that they have medicinal and therapeutic values. Dugong tears are also known be used in love potions. Little is known about seagrasses and how they have been perceived or used by local communities. The scoping survey will give insights on the importance of seagrasses to local communities.  This information will help conservation planners understand the mindset of the local community when involving them in conservation practices.