PETALING JAYA, Dec 3 — The incredible footage of a whale shark swimming up to a boat seeking help after it was caught in a rope in the coast of Bintulu, Sarawak has been winning hearts on social media since Sunday.

The clip, which was posted on Sunday captures a majestic whale shark slowly approaching the vessel with a yellow rope caught around its body.

According to Malaysia Animal Association president Arie Dwi Andika, three Sarawakian fishermen were on board the boat at the right and time when the large marine fish swam towards them appearing to ask for help.

“We are so proud of Malaysians who helped the whale shark.

“It’s so hard these days to get honest people to help animals in need,” Arie told Malay Mail.