KOTA KINABALU: An integrated approach involving stakeholders, enforcement officials, government agencies, and local communities is essential to address Sabah’s persistent fish bombing problem.
"An integrated approach to tackling the issues surrounding fish bombing in Sabah will produce the desired results in our efforts to protect coral structures and marine ecosystems," said Datuk Seri Christina Liew
The Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister said this in response to reports of ongoing fish bombing activities in Sabah, which destroy marine species and endanger fishermen, tourists, and divers.
Condemning these actions, Liew stated that the ministry continues to work with partners to address the issue.
She then said that fish bombing in Sabah waters poses a severe threat to the environment, causing extensive damage to coral reefs, which are habitats for marine life.
"Fish bombing destroys not only fish but also a wide range of other marine species," she said.
"Reef destruction leads to negative environmental impacts, which may cause a decline in tourism, as no tourists will want to visit Sabah to see damaged reefs," Liew added.
Asked about the status of the Anti-Fish Bombing Committee, Liew said it is under the jurisdiction of the Sabah Fisheries Department.
"Our agency, the Board of Trustees of Sabah Parks (TTS), sits on the committee," she said.
Recently, the Sabah Fisheries Department has been busy with community-based programmes to help local fishing communities and conducted several operations at sea to enforce regulations.
In February, the department introduced three main initiatives to strengthen the fishery sector in the state.
These initiatives include increasing patrol boats and operations equipment and updating their uniform and overall enforcement image.
Director Datuk Azhar Kassim stressed the department's commitment to enhancing fishery-related laws and regulations and urged all personnel to carry out their duties with integrity, justice, and full commitment.
