Ensuring sustainability of marine resources

Johor agriculture, agro-based industry and rural development committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip (right) and Zainudin releasing prawn fry at Jeti Nelayan Kampung Tekam, Segamat.

MORE than a million fish fry have been released by Johor Fisheries Department within the past two years as part of efforts to ensure food sustainability.

Its director Zainudin Abd Wahab said the department had allocated RM700,000 for the release of fish fry as well as crab and prawn fry into the open sea and rivers.

“This is to ensure local fishermen’s catch and income can increase in the long run.

“This will also ensure that marine resources in coastal areas can be sustained,” he said, adding that it would also help ensure the survival of species in certain areas.

Some of the species which were released included ikan baung, ikan lampam, udang galah, ikan kelah, ikan sebarau and ikan tengas, he added.

“We released 440,000 fish fry in 2022 and 720,000 fish fry last year,” said Zainudin.

“It is one of the most important marine resource programmes conducted not only in freshwater but also in rivers, lakes and the ocean.

“Almost all districts in Johor have such locations, but the programme is mostly carried out in Segamat, Kluang, Muar, Kota Tinggi and Mersing,” he said.

Zainudin said among the main challenges faced by fishermen were pollution as well as fish catching activities using illegal methods or equipment.

“This includes fish bombing and poisoning,” he said, adding that the department would continue to carry out enforcement.

“We ensure all fishing activities in oceans, rivers and coastal areas are conducted legally,” said Zainudin.

“The department is also working closely with the fishing community to prevent overfishing.”

Jefridin: Norwegian fish breeding company planning to expand to Tanjung Piai.

Kukup assemblyman Datuk Jefridin Atan said a Norwegian fish breeding company was planning to expand to Tanjung Piai.

“The company already has a presence in Singapore and is now planning to set up a base here.

“It sees Kukup as the best location due to its close proximity to Singapore,” he said.

He added that the company was currently scouting for the best site to set up operations and would use modern fish farming methods.

The company is expected to present its proposal to Johor government this year.

“It has expertise in breeding saltwater fish, which can be beneficial in terms of transfer of knowledge and technology to local fish breeders,” said Jefridin. — By Remar Nordin