Cabinet may discuss ‘bubu naga’ issue
MANJUNG: The Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry is considering taking the issue of the increasing use of the bubu naga fish trap in several states to the cabinet to resolve the problem.
Its minister, Salahuddin Ayub, said the ministry viewed the issue seriously and would discuss it at the ministry, Fisheries Department and Fisheries Development Authority levels.
“They (those involved) have no licences and are a threat to fishermen’s income.
“There may be a cartel or group that is operating illegally.
“If the issue needs stronger action, I will discuss it in the cabinet to see if it needs the involvement of marine police and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.”
Salahuddin said this after an interaction programme with fishermen in Pantai Remis near here yesterday.
He said bubu naga had been widely used since two years ago in Johor, Kedah, Perak and Perlis, and wanted the problem to be resolved soon.
On the status of pukat kenka (modified trawler nets used by two boats) licences that would end by 2020, Salahuddin said he was waiting for a full report from the Fisheries Department.
“A decision will be made after a full report is obtained from the Fisheries Department as we do not want to be unfair to anyone.”
He advised fishermen, especially those going into deep-sea waters, not to go beyond the maritime borders and be caught by authorities in other countries.