TANJUNG MANIS – An APM Tanjung Manis district team managed to catch a one-metre long Tedung Selar snake that was found curled up in the rear tyre of a villager’s car.
It happened at the Old Housing area in Tanjung Manis on Monday, 9 February 2026. Shortly after 1.15pm, APM received an emergency call from a member of the public and sent three staff members to the spot.
When they arrived, the crew took a closer look at the vehicle and ascertained that indeed there was a snake trapped in between two tyres. Authorities pinched the snake to hold it in order to prevent injuring either the animal or those attempting the rescue. The operation was conducted swiftly without any harm caused to the complainant or residents of the area.
The king cobra, or Tedung Selar, is one of the world’s longest venomous snakes, and it is found in Southeast Asia. Although infrequent in residential settings, incidents involving this species demonstrate the need for communities to remain vigilant and prepared for wildlife emergencies.
APM staff said that the rescue was simply another example of their ongoing dedication to public safety. The Snake Rescue Service (KMU) focuses on attending calls pertaining to dangerous reptiles, allowing residents to depend on trained and well-equipped personnel to handle such situations effectively.
Neighbourhood residents also said they were relieved to see such a rapid response, adding that a poisonous snake in the immediate vicinity of families is not to be taken lightly. The successful capture reassured the community that APM is still equipped to respond to unexpected emergencies.
The case also highlights the broader role of APM in Sarawak, which extends beyond disaster management to include wildlife-related incidents. Its level of preparedness and professionalism has helped build public trust and reflects a strong commitment to protecting communities.
The snake was later released in a safe location away from human activity, in line with conservation practices. Members of the public were reminded to report dangerous wildlife directly to APM or relevant authorities instead of attempting to deal with it themselves.
The incident in Tanjung Manis serves as a reminder that wildlife interactions can be unpredictable and require coordinated response efforts. With APM on standby, residents can feel reassured that safety remains a top priority.
