Lack of boats, super-high rentals bane of sports fishing in Miri — Lee

MIRI: Inadequate boats and exorbitant rental fees charged by private companies are said to be two key reasons that pose difficulties to sports fishing here.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin acknowledged the complaints raised by the Miri Anglers Club but at the same time, he said the club must work with the government and the private stakeholders in coming out with a plan that could benefit the stakeholders and also to attract more tourists.

“The Miri City International Deep Sea Fishing Tournament is the best avenue for such plan; thus, it is vital to work out the details and to improve on the necessary facilities,” he said during a press conference on the tournament at the Miri Resident’s Office on Monday, where Miri Resident Sherrina Hussaini was also present.

The 10th Miri City International Deep Sea Fishing Tournament, to run from this May 11 to 14, is expected to gather 110 anglers from all over Malaysia, as well as from Singapore, China and South Korea.

Lee lauded the club’s initiative and perseverance in organising international-level sports fishing events here.

“Their contribution to the promotion of sports fishing and also Miri tourism is undeniably great,” he said.

Sports fishing, Lee observed, is ‘very much active’ between March and October.

“The months from November to February, which is the monsoon season, force the anglers to stay out of sea. During this period, perhaps, the club could make better use of the boats such as arranging and offering Baram River boat cruise packages for tourists, who can join the tours to the longhouses,” he suggested.

The 10th Miri City International Deep Sea Fishing Tournament is offering a total of RM56,600 in cash prizes to the winners.

This May 14, a prize presentation ceremony cum closing dinner will be held, where the organiser has invited Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg to the event as its most distinguished guest.

The dinner will also mark the 20th anniversary of Miri Anglers Club this year.

Lee (front, seventh right), with Sherrina on his left and Miri Anglers Club (MAC) president Ting Thung Hing (front, seventh left), joins club members and local officials in a group photo after the press conference at the Resident’s Office.