Authorities coming down hard on illegal fishing

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 629 cases involving illegal fishing under the Fisheries Act 1985 were recorded between 2012 and this year, with RM202,000 in compounds being slapped on offenders.

Minister in the

Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday that in combating illegal fishing, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) had conducted 543 operations.

“The Sabah Fisheries Department also set up enforcement units at four main bases, namely Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Penyu, Sandakan and Tawau.

“The department also collaborated with other maritime enforcement agencies to conduct operations and patrolling at Sabah waters,” she said.

Nancy was replying to a question by Wong Tien Fatt (DAP-Sandakan), who had asked what actions had the government taken to stop illegal fishing in Sabah waters.

Nancy further said MMEA had been working hand in hand with the Fishery Department to create awareness and educate the community about the dangers of illegal fishing.

“Among actions taken are by encouraging licensed fishermen to report illegal fishing activities by unscrupulous parties through dialogue session organised with the community.”