KOTA KINABALU: Conservationists reported that fish bombing destroyed at least 10 planted star reefs and corals at a restoration site on Pulau Selakan off Semporna.
Selakan Marine Conservation Group manager Musedi Abd Hadi said there were at least 10 damaged star reef units and corals. He said their work was destroyed in one day.
“It is sad to see our over two years of hard work restoring, caring for and planting these reefs get destroyed,” he said, adding they believe the damage was done a day or two ago.
He said broken fragments and a crater indicated that the damage was likely caused by fish bombing. He also said that it happened in the wee hours or after sunset.
Musedi said that while there have been increased enforcement and patrols to prevent such incidents, fish bombers will always come up with new ideas to carry out their illegal activities for faster and easier catches.
He urged communities to report suspected fish bombing and boycott illegally caught seafood.
He said the destruction of coral reefs in the Pulau Selakan area has also been worsening, suggesting that these fish bombers are getting bolder.
Diver Rasyid Abd Jal expressed regret and anger at fishermen using such destructive methods to catch fish.
It was said that the renowned Mabul Island is also facing similar threats.
