Sarawak’s crocodile population surpassed 25,000 in 2024 after being nearly wiped out due to overexploitation in the 1980s. Sarawak on Borneo island has seen a rise in crocodile encounters in recent years as the number of reptiles in the state’s rivers rebounded. The crocodile population reached more than 25,000 in 2024 after being nearly wiped out due to overexploitation in the 1980s, according to a survey. Though crocodile encounters have become more frequent, attacks have declined compared to 20 years ago, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation said. Authorities have collaborated with licensed hunters and local communities to relocate crocodiles away from rivers near human settlements.