Roslina Mohamad The Star 18 May 11
KUANTAN: Artificial reefs can deter illegal trawling activities that are destroying the country's marine eco-system and affecting the livelihoods of traditional fishermen.
"The operators of these vessels (trawlers) are doing many bad things to the marine life, not only in the deep sea. They are also encroaching in areas meant for smaller-scale fishing activities.
"Artificial reefs can protect these areas, gazetted five nautical miles from shore, which are rich in marine life and resources," Fisheries Department director-general Datuk Ahamad Sabki Mahmood said Wednesday, in his speech at the opening of a national-level seminar on artificial reef development and research.
He said illegal activities by trawlers operating in prohibited areas were rampant, and it was a challenge for the department, especially because many of the vessels were bigger and used modern technology.
Natural reefs could not rebuild themselves fast enough but artificial ones have been shown to be successful in replenishing reefs and corals.
Speaking to reporters later, Ahamad Sabki said the department had created 197 artificial reef spots around the country and planned to add 50 more, which required a sum of RM25mil.
"It is essential to continue to develop artificial reefs so the country's fish and marine supplies will always be sustainable.
"It has huge benefits, especially in helping to sustain the livelihoods of some 80,000 fishermen in the country and reduce fish imports," he added.
He also said the department had suspended 10 licences issued to deep-sea operators for making illegals fish landings outside of Malaysia this year and that they would continue to monitor the rest of the 1,300 licence holders.
