Goes the flippers of the sea turtle I‘m gently holding. The eager ‘Slappy‘ is one of thousands of turtles being rehabilitated or reared by the Royal Thai Navy at the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre in Sattahip, about two hours‘ drive away from Bangkok. Because of its location inside the Royal Thai Navy base, the area is highly restricted. Under the Military Safety Zone Act (1935) and the Fishery Act (1947), these protected areas were reserved for sea turtle nesting. This is probably why many Asians believe that if you encounter a sea turtle in its natural environment, you‘ll be blessed with longevity and health.

Source: New Strait Times December 10, 2017 06:33 UTC