Whale Shark Washes Ashore in Bali, Authorities Initiate Protection and Investigation

A whale shark was found stranded on Pengeragoan Beach in Pengeragoan Dauh Tukad Village, Pekutatan District, Jembrana Regency, Bali, on Saturday (12/9). The animal was first spotted by residents in shallow waters around 08:30 WITA. "Based on initial observations at the location, the animal has a large, elongated body, a dark surface with white patterns or spots, and a dorsal fin," said Pekutatan Police Chief Kompol Benyamin Nikijuluw on Saturday (12/9). Based on these visual characteristics, the marine animal is suspected to be a whale shark or Rhincodon typus. This identification is still temporary and requires further examination by experts in marine and conservation fields. Benyamin stated that his team has secured the area as an anticipatory measure and to provide space for relevant agencies to handle the situation according to regulations. "We urge the public not to take any actions themselves towards the animal. Do not pull, hit, ride, move, or take any part of its body," he said. "Together with the village government and related agencies, we are coordinating so that the handling can be done appropriately and safely," Benyamin continued. Benyamin invited the public around Pengeragoan Beach to remain calm, not to approach the animal excessively, and to leave the identification and handling process to the authorities. "These steps are part of the police's efforts to maintain public safety, as well as to support the humane and conservation-compliant handling of marine animals," he said.