KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is concerned that shark fins are being sold openly here, says Datuk Christina Liew.
The state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said she would discuss the matter with the Sabah Wildlife Department and Sabah Parks about the open sale of the dried shark fins in Sinsuran here that was highlighted by tourists.
She said that Sabah had successfully discouraged restaurants from serving shark fin dishes as well as shark finning as part of its conservation efforts.
However, she said that she needed to verify the claim with relevant agencies about the legality of selling shark fins in markets.
"I will need to look into it," she told reporters when asked about calls by shark conservationists for the state government to slap a total ban on hunting and finning of all shark species.
Liew was speaking to reporters after launching the Natural Beauty of Sabah Photographic Exhibition and the 15th anniversary celebration of the Environmental Magazine here on Wednesday (March 29).
She said that the state was supportive of efforts by groups and individuals to promote environmental issues.
Liew said that it was important for everyone to care for the environment and make green efforts as part of their activity.
"We ensure that our sea is clean and also ensure a healthy living environment. We cannot allow for rubbish to be strewn everywhere," she added.
On the air conditioning problem at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Liew said that airport authorities were taking steps to tackle the problem and she believed it will be resolved soon.
"Overall, things are improving at KKIA. More lights are working and Immigration has opened up more counters. They are doing a good job," she added.
