UMT analyses hundreds of whale vomit samples, finds none authentic

KUALA TERENGGANU - Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has analysed 177 samples believed to be whale vomit, or ambergris, since 2021.

Disappointingly, none have been genuine.

UMT's Research and Field Services Centre (PPPL) Director Dr Hasrizal Shaari revealed this, noting samples came from both Malaysia and abroad (Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore).

"Most samples lack ambergris, the key component for purity.

"Finding true whale vomit in Malaysian waters, especially shallow East Coast waters, is difficult," he told Sinar when contacted.

He attributed ambergris formation to a rare process in the sperm whale's digestive system triggered by deep-sea squid consumption.

"Shallow waters like the Sunda Plate (average depth less than 100 meters) make finding real ambergris highly unlikely," he stressed.

Hasrizal added that sunlight and seawater can transform surface-floating fats or oils into ambergris-like objects.

"PPPL lab analysis often detects a cooking oil-like fat component in these samples.

"This explains frequent reports of ambergris discoveries, but lab analysis is crucial for confirmation," he said.

UMT has the capability to verify the authenticity of whale vomit, certified by retired Plymouth University expert, Prof Dr Rowlan J. Stevan.

Hasrizal noted the use of physicochemical analysis to determine authenticity, comparing results with pure ambergris obtained by the UMT laboratory.

Recently, a resident of Rhu Muda, Marang, claimed to have discovered a mysterious 8-kilogramme object at Kelulut Beach, suspected to be a deep-sea plant or frozen whale blubber, stirring curiosity among locals.