KOTA KINABALU: Enforcement and patrols are being heightened in Selakan Island and its surrounding areas following reports of damaged coral reefs from fish bombing activities.
Sabah Parks director Datuk Maklarin Lakim said damage reported at the island off Semporna were also being assessed, with restoration and reactive measures to be drawn up.
“We are also working with local communities, especially those on the islands and nearby islands such as Pulau Sebangkat, Pulau Maiga, Pulau Tetagan and Pulau Bodgaya within the Tun Sakaran Marine Park.
“These islands are under the jurisdiction of Sabah Parks, meaning there are activity restrictions and regulations in place to conserve and protect marine biodiversity,” he said.
The damage to coral reefs was highlighted by the Selakan Marine Conservation Group after they received information that their planted reefs had been destroyed, believed to be from fish bombing activities.
Its manager Musedi Abd Hadi said that based on photos taken from the damaged area, at least 10 units of the star reefs and corals which had been growing from the restoration works over the past two years were wrecked.
He said 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 catch.
He urged local communities to make a report if they see or hear of any fish bombing activities and to chase the culprits before they cause any damage.
“For those selling fish and other catch from this illegal method, let us all boycott their sales,” said Musedi.
Local coastal communities said apart from Selakan Island, the renowned Mabul Island is also facing similar threats.
