Hiew explains that Fisheries can, to a certain extent, control what happens in the sea as the Fisheries Act 1985 allows a maximum buffer zone of 5.55 nautical kilometres. This prohibits all activities, including fishing, in that area. Unfortunately, this does not restrict what happens on land, unless it is a gazetted sanctuary. In the case of Ma' Daerah, there is hope yet. The beach is a mere 1.7km long, so it can be easily patrolled by staff of five.
Access is also difficult, and is possible only by four-wheel drive vehicles.
With hatcheries like Rantau Abang, security is a perennial problem as it stretches for 13km and is vulnerable to intrusion from all points. As another safeguard, Ma' Daerah would need a buffer zone. As it is, resort developers have been eyeing that beach. Hiew says there was an aborted plan for a resort nearby, and he fears similar plans might resurface. Hatchlings released in broad daylight for the viewing pleasure of Japanese tourists at the Chendor hatchery in Cherating, Pahang.