World · Malaysia Bureau
Mardi researcher dies in bee swarm attack at Terengganu farm
A Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute staff member has died after being attacked by a swarm of bees while collecting honey at a farm in Kemaman, Terengganu. The incident marks a rare fatal workplace accident involving the country's agricultural research sector.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Mardi worker was conducting honey collection activities at a farm in Kemaman when the bee swarm attacked without warning on October 25. Emergency services responded to the incident but the staff member succumbed to injuries sustained during the attack.
Beekeeping and honey production activities are common research components at Mardi facilities across Malaysia. Workers engaged in such operations typically follow safety protocols, though incidents involving aggressive bee behaviour can occur unexpectedly when colonies feel threatened.
The incident has raised awareness among agricultural researchers about workplace safety measures when handling honeybee colonies. Terengganu's agricultural sector, which includes apiculture operations, employs numerous researchers and field workers in similar roles.
Mardi has not yet released further details regarding the circumstances of the attack or whether additional safety measures will be implemented at its facilities. Authorities in Kemaman are investigating the incident.