KOTA BARU: The Kelantan Fisheries Department has deployed 16 cuboid-shaped artificial reefs in the waters off Tumpat to help conserve marine resources in the state.
Its director Ismail Ibrahim said the annual initiative was aimed at ensuring the sustainability of natural resources, particularly marine ecosystems.
He said the structures provide breeding grounds, nursery areas and shelter for various fish species and marine life, while helping to restore habitats damaged by fishing activities and natural disasters.
"The reefs are also strong enough to act as barriers against trawling activities in coastal waters. Each unit weighs about 15 tonnes and measures 2.6m in height, with a width and length of 2.5m," he said in a statement on Monday (April 27).
The project was carried out with an allocation of RM500,000 under the Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Programme.
Ismail said the department had also introduced recreation-based artificial reefs to enhance the structures' functions.
"The design and specifications are tailored according to the deployment sites to create agro-tourism areas centred on recreational fishing and scuba diving activities.
"Department records show that 328 artificial reefs of various sizes, types and concepts were deployed in Kelantan waters between 2007 and 2025," he said.
He said the reefs were placed at several locations in Pasir Puteh, Tumpat, Bachok and Kota Baru, involving an estimated allocation of RM6mil.
"The department remains committed to carrying out programmes, including the deployment of artificial reefs, to ensure sustainable fisheries resources and strengthen national food security," he said. - Bernama
