MALAYSIA’S rich marine biodiversity is a significant contributor to the economy through the fishing and tourism industries. However, our marine ecosystem is facing a number of threats, particularly ocean acidification and fish bombing.
Driven by the absorption of excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acidification prevents the growth of shell-forming organisms like corals and molluscs.
This disrupts the marine food chain and ultimately leads to a decline in fish population, which will affect coastal communities and small businesses engaged in the fisheries industry.
The practice of fish bombing is also destroying our marine habitats. Between June 2014 and February 2020, 2,832 blasts, which destroyed vital fish habitats, were recorded.
Recently, it was reported that nine men were arrested by the Sabah marine police for suspected fishing with explosives in the waters off the western coast of Pulau Manukan, an island off the coast of Kota Kinabalu.
Fish bombing fractures coral reefs beyond repair, hindering any chance of regeneration or regrowth. It shatters the sub-structure of the coral, creating “dead zones” and removes essential life support systems for marine species.
According to the Department of Fisheries, Malaysia has lost 96% of its fish stock in less than 60 years.
Local fishermen are saying they no longer see certain fish species that they used to catch 30 years ago.
Moreover, they spend more time fishing but return with fewer catches now.
Reduced incomes and increased competition for scarce resources are forcing local fishermen to venture into deeper and riskier waters, adding to costs and compromising their safety.
The economic consequences are being felt across the entire fishing supply chain, including traders, and consumers.
Coral reefs also protect vital coastal infrastructure by acting as a natural barrier to prevent erosion. Loss of this protective barrier will make Malaysia’s coastal areas more susceptible to erosion and storm damage, resulting in high costs for the local communities.
Degradation of the coral reefs will also have a negative impact on our tourism industry. Once tourists, especially those who are concerned about sustainable and ethical tourism, learn about the deteriorating state of Malaysia’s marine habitats, they will seek other destinations.
When this happens, coastal businesses, tour operators, hotels, and restaurants that rely on tourists will be left to rue the loss of their golden goose.
As such, enforcement agencies such as the Department of Environment and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency must work together with local communities and NGOs, and international organisations to preserve and protect our threatened marine habitats.
Promoting sustainable fishing practices, enforcing the law on illegal fishing, and funding coral reef restoration are all necessary to achieve this.
By prioritising environmental preservation, Malaysia can secure its marine heritage for future generations, and foster sustainable economic growth while ensuring the prosperity of coastal communities.
NAVYA RAJAN
KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, Kuala Lumpur
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