Experts warn that venomous Portuguese man-of-war jellyfish washed ashore in Terengganu remain dangerous, with active stings causing severe pain and allergic reactions
KUALA NERUS: The public has been strongly advised against touching venomous jellyfish washed up on beaches across Terengganu.
Dr Rosmawati Md Amin, a senior lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, warned that the Portuguese man-of-war species remains dangerous even when stranded.
“Even though they may look like unmoving blue plastic, their stinging cells are still active and can release toxins upon contact,” she said.
She explained that thousands of stinging cells on their tentacles remain active, debunking the myth that beached jellyfish are harmless.
A sting can cause intense pain, dizziness, body aches, and respiratory distress.
In severe cases, it can trigger allergic reactions requiring immediate hospital treatment.
Rosmawati also advised people to wear shoes or sandals when walking along the shore.
This species, commonly called ‘ubur-ubur api’ or fire jellyfish, often washes up on the East Coast during the Northeast Monsoon.
Wind and ocean currents bring them ashore, particularly in Terengganu.
The use of vinegar for stings is debated and only suitable for certain species.
Warm water is among the recommended treatments for soothing pain.
Fishermen and others handling nets must also exercise caution around trapped jellyfish.
These venomous hydrozoans have recently been spotted again at popular spots like Pantai Pandak and Pantai Paka.
They are easily identified by a translucent bluish colour and a gas-filled float.
Their size typically ranges from two to 10 centimetres.
