MBSA under fire for releasing invasive species into lake

THE Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) has come under fire for purportedly releasing Sutchi catfish, locally known as ikan patin asing, at Tasik Bandaraya Shah Alam during a recent programme to launch a fishing competition there.

Also known by its scientific name Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, the fish is an invasive species originating from the Mekong river basin.

MBSA posted about the event on its Facebook page, which drew a handful of critical comments from the public, who questioned if the city council was aware it was releasing an invasive species.

The Selangor Fisheries Department (DOF), in a statement to StarMetro on Monday (Oct 14), expressed regret over the incident.

“We are saddened by the action of a certain party which recently released an invasive fish species into the lake.

“This will not only harm the lake’s ecosystem, but also creates risks for local fish species and disrupts biodiversity,” it said.

DOF urged stakeholders to refer to the department prior to releasing any species into water bodies.

“The authority will also step up inspection and monitoring to ensure a similar incident does not recur,” it added.

Those with information can submit a report to DOF by calling 03-5519 0169/70 or emailing [e-mail]

Selangor has been on an aggressive campaign to rid its water bodies of invasive species, especially suckermouth catfish, locally known as ikan bandaraya.

On Oct 12, StarMetro reported that some four tonnes were netted since an operation was launched last month targeting the species in Sungai Langat.

State infrastructure and agriculture committee chairman Izham Hashim was quoted as saying the operation would be expanded to other rivers in Selangor.

StarMetro has reached out to MBSA for comments.