KUDAT: The diving community and marine scientists were abuzz with the news of a whale spouting water off Kudat waters here recently.
Diving instructor and surfer Ivan Tan said the whale had been in the area for a few days.
"People had seen it over Kelambu island to the Tip of Borneo and LightHouse. When the whale surfaced, the water spouting could be seen.
"There was no sign of injuries. It was more like the whale was following fishes or squids for food," he said.
Tan, who is also a local diving operator, said that species could be a Bryde's whale but the experts needed more details to get the confirmation.
"It is considered rare to have a water spouting whale off Kudat waters. I was quite excited and thrilled to see it.
"Maybe the whale was here because Kudat waters has less boat traffic and fishermen, or there are more food sources.
"It seems like Kudat can be a place for watching pelagic marine animals," he said, adding that he was hoping to see it again today.
Kudat waters, which are located about three hours drive from Kota Kinabalu, is part of the Tun Mustapha Park which is largest gazetted marine park in the country.
Apart from having 12 designated diving sites, Kudat is also renowned as a place for surfing.