@AGROBiz January/February 2025 | Page 20

20 Fisheries @ AGROBiz | January-February . 2025

20 Fisheries @ AGROBiz | January-February . 2025

Strengthening conservation

DOF pushes for sustainable fishing to protect dwindling fish stocks

THE Department of Fisheries Malaysia ( DOF ) is intensifying conservation efforts to protect the country ’ s dwindling fish stocks . These initiatives include expanding Marine Protected Areas ( MPAs ), implementing seasonal fishing bans , and constructing artificial reefs to sustain marine biodiversity .

DOF Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain highlighted that under the 13th Malaysia Plan ( RMK13 ), the agency aims to deploy 10 artificial reef sites annually and establish three artificial reef complexes in overfished zones , subject to site suitability .
“ For the 13th Malaysia Plan ( RMK13 ), it is proposed that 10 artificial reef sites be deployed annually , along with the development of three artificial reef complexes in fisheries resource-depleted areas , subject to site suitability ,” Adnan said .
ENFORCING SUSTAINABLE FISHING
As part of its long-term strategy , DOF is proposing systematic fisheries resource studies to regulate better fishing vessel capacity based on stock availability .
Adnan noted that despite a healthy production of 1.42 million tonnes last year , certain regions require stricter monitoring to ensure sustainability and safeguard the livelihoods of fishing communities .
The government has also established 80 fisheries restriction zones , including marine parks and refugia , to prohibit fishing in designated areas .
Under RMK12 , 281 artificial reefs worth RM8.58 million were deployed , with DOF studies recording fish biomass ranging from 129 to 6,047 kg per site .
These reefs not only enhance fish stocks but also deter illegal fishing activities , particularly by trawlers .
ADDRESSING OVERFISHING CONCERNS
Adnan stressed that conservation in waters within 12 nautical miles is crucial since coastal fisheries contribute significantly to overall fish landings . In 2022 , these fisheries accounted for 87.9 per cent or 1.15 million metric tonnes of total marine fish landings .
DOF has also enforced bans on juvenile grouper fishing in Kelantan and Terengganu and introduced a zoning system in Perak , Selangor , and Kedah with a 0-1 nm conservation zone .
To regulate fishing operations , new deep-sea fishing licences in Zone C2 remain available due to abundant resources , while other zones remain controlled to maintain fish populations .
Adnan stated : “ New sampan ( small boat ) licences are issued mainly as replacements when
fishermen leave the industry , pass away , or become unfit for work . No new licences are issued for Zone A , B , and C fishermen to ensure fishery resources remain stable and controlled .”
Malaysia has also ratified the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement ( FSA ) under the World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) to reduce harmful subsidies and protect fish stocks . Additionally , DOF is amending the Fisheries Act 1985 to introduce holistic fisheries management measures , addressing issues like overfishing , habitat destruction , pollution , and illegal , unreported , and unregulated ( IUU ) fishing .
“ Effective fish stock management requires a holistic approach , including sustainable fishing practices , habitat conservation , and regulatory enforcement , to ensure the country ’ s fish supply remains sufficient in the future ,” Adnan stressed .

Protecting fish stocks

THE Department of Fisheries ( DOF ) is calling on the fishing community to adopt sustainable practices to safeguard Malaysia ’ s marine resources for future generations .
Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain emphasised the importance of using eco-friendly fishing gear , adhering to closed fishing seasons , and following catch size regulations to ease pressure on fish stocks and support marine life reproduction .
To achieve this , the DOF is developing fishing equipment designed to minimise environmental impact , including trawl nets fitted with turtle excluder devices ( TEDs ). These devices help prevent bycatch while allowing target species to be caught efficiently .
ECO-FRIENDLY TECHNOLOGY AID
Adnan explained : “ The DOF is conducting training and awareness programmes to educate fishermen on the importance of using sustainable fishing gear .
“ Additionally , the department provides technical support and incentives to encourage the fishing community to transition to more eco-friendly equipment .”
Currently , 112,344 fishermen are registered across the country .
Adnan also highlighted enforcement efforts to curb destructive fishing practices , such as the use of ‘ bubu naga ’ fish traps . The department is collaborating with other agencies to ensure compliance with regulations while deploying technology like the Vessel Monitoring System ( VMS ) to track real-time fishing activities and prevent unsustainable practices .
“ The DOF also promotes the use of advanced fishing technology , such as sonar , echo sounders , and GPS , to help fishermen locate fish more efficiently while preventing overfishing . This includes the implementation of Fishing Site Identification ( FSI ) technology ,” he said .
A FISHERMEN ’ S ROLE
Additionally , local fishermen play a key role in marine conservation by monitoring protected areas and reporting illegal activities .
Adnan mentioned : “ Local fishermen serve as ‘ eyes and ears ’ at sea , reporting illegal fishing activities , the use of prohibited fishing gear , and other threats to fish stocks to the authorities . Their vigilance plays a crucial role in supporting the enforcement of fisheries laws .”
To further reduce dependence on wild fish stocks , the DOF is promoting alternative economic initiatives such as aquaculture and marine ecotourism . These efforts aim to balance economic needs with environmental sustainability , ensuring a thriving aquatic ecosystem for the long term . – @ AGROBiz