Culinary concern: A picture taken by divers showing what is believed to be the tail of a protected shark species.
KOTA KINABALU: State Fisheries authorities are checking on claims that protected shark species are back to being sold in the open here.
Sabah Fisheries Department director Azhar Kassim said they had received complaints from divers that protected shark species were sold in markets and a restaurant.
“We have to check on this and find out whether the species sold are really those under the protection list, or under which category of protection these species are,” he said when contacted.
He said there are several levels of protected status, and some can be sold for consumption provided the terms and conditions are met.
“We understand the concerns of the public,” said Azhar.
He was responding to claims by the divers who expressed concern about the presence of sharks and other marine species, which they believe are protected under the law, sold in markets and restaurants.
Deus Diving Club (DDC) president Sim Fui said among these species were the catsharks, which are allegedly sold openly at a restaurant in Tuaran.
He said this had raised alarm among the dive communities, as they are worried about the sustainability of marine ecosystems in Sabah.
Sim called for matters on marine species protection to be brought up at the federal level.
“We are aware that only certain shark and ray species are protected under the Fisheries Act 1985, while the rest can be caught, sold or consumed,” Sim said in a statement.
As of July 17, 2019, four shark species and two manta ray species gained country-wide protection under the Federal Fisheries (Control of Endangered Species of Fish) Regulations 1999 and the Fisheries Act 1985, he said.
These species are the great hammerhead shark (Sphyrna mokarran), smooth hammerhead shark (Sphyrna zygaena), winghead shark (Eusphyra blochii), oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), giant oceanic manta (Manta birostris), and reef manta (Manta alfredi).
“As avid divers, we understand the critical role that sharks and rays play in maintaining the balance of our oceans. They are not only majestic creatures but also vital components of marine biodiversity,” said Sim.
He said diving enthusiasts would not mind paying to see these species underwater, but seeing them sold in markets would deter them from coming to Sabah.
“We hope Sabah lawmakers can prioritise the protection of marine species by introducing and advocating for legislation that safeguards these animals and their habitats,” he said.
Sim believes that enhanced legal protections, coupled with strict enforcement measures, are essential to curbing illegal fishing activities and preventing further exploitation of vulnerable species.
Meanwhile, he said the club, which has about 100 members, values collaboration and collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
He encouraged the public to actively report sightings of endangered marine species to relevant authorities and conservation organisations.
“We can raise awareness, gather crucial data, and take meaningful steps towards preserving our precious marine heritage for future generations,” said Sim.
