DUNGUN: The suspected rampant use of illegal tuba fishing in Sungai Rasau, Terengganu, has raised concerns among residents of Felda Kerteh 3, Paka, as it is affecting the livelihoods of local river fishermen.
Village Development and Security Committee chairman Alias Mamat said that since January, four suspected cases of fish poisoning using the plant-based toxins were detected in the river, with the latest incident occurring last Wednesday.
He said the irresponsible act had damaged the river ecosystem and threatened the sustainability of the river’s aquatic life.
“In the latest incident, thousands of fish carcasses were seen floating at various points along Sungai Rasau, believed to have been poisoned.
“Those responsible are believed to have carried out tuba fishing at multiple spots along the river, spanning about four kilometres from Felda Kerteh 1 to Felda Kerteh 3,” he told reporters here yesterday.
He added that among the species found floating dead were lampam, baung, sebarau, selat, tilan, terbul and haruan.
Tuba fishing (using poisonous plants to stun or kill fish) is illegal under the Fisheries Act 1985 due to its destructive, non-selective impact on ecosystems, which can result in severe fines or imprisonment.
Meanwhile, villager Zawawi Ibrahim, 60, said he relies on fishing not only for daily meals but also to supplement his family’s income.
“I catch lampam, baung and sebarau as they fetch high prices in the market, between RM15 and RM25 per kg.
“These fish are becoming increasingly scarce in the river due to the suspected widespread tuba fishing, especially during the dry season,” he added.
Felda Kerteh 3 manager Mohamad Hairun Abd Rahman, 38, expressed disappointment over the suspected use of tuba fishing, saying it indiscriminately kills fish fry while damaging the river’s ecosystem.
He said that besides being a popular fishing spot for locals and an important source of livelihood for the community, many outsiders also frequent the river to fish.
Mohamad Hairun added that a report will be lodged with the state Fisheries Department.
Terengganu Fisheries Department director Pang Nyukang said the department had yet to receive a report but would carry out an investigation once it’s lodged.
