Labuan Fisheries optimistic of increased fish landing this year
LABUAN: The Labuan Fisheries Department is optimistic of a surge in total fish landing this year to meet local consumption and export.
The total landing as of September stood at 14,331.31 metric tonnes worth RM71, 656.60 as compared to 20,985 metric tonnes in the whole of last year.
Department director Faizal Ibrahim Suhaili said Labuan's fisheries resources would be adequate amidst its growing population, and the total landing would increase more than last year's landing.
“We have yet to record the landing in October, and the two remaining months, and we believe the landing will be more than last year,” he told a press conference after the Strengthening of Fisheries Community and Touch Point Aid Presentation programme here yesterday.
He said a total of 251 fishing vessels (Zon A, C2, and C2 Tuna) and 313 fishermen were currently registered with the department.
Labuan's Senator Datuk Bashir Alias, who was present at the ceremony, said the Labuan waters will be safeguarded from any intrusion by foreign fishing vessels in the interest of local fishermen and national sovereignty.
However, he said the strict enforcement from among the high integrity enforcement officials is necessary to effectively curb the long-standing issue.
He said the close cooperation of people from all levels, especially the fishermen was imperative as they could be the ‘eyes and ears' of the local authority in channelling vital information.
“We must work together to curb intrusion into Labuan waters by foreign fishermen and also the use of fish bombs to catch fish as they (fish bombs) can lead to severe damage to our marine lives and corals,” added Bashir.
The Labuan Corporation Advisory Council chairman urged local fishermen to work together with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in curbing illegal fishing activities, especially from foreign vessel operators.
There had been reports on intrusion by foreign vessels, especially from Vietnam, which carried out illegal fishing activities in Labuan waters.
More than 50 fishermen led by Labuan Fisheries Community chief, Abdul Samad Maidin took the Corruption-Free Pledge, witnessed by MACC Labuan chief, Abdulamin Abdillah.