LUMUT – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) in Perak has intensified its crackdown on illegal fishing activities, resulting in the detention of a trawler vessel and the seizure of numerous prohibited fishing traps.
The operations, conducted under various coordinated missions, highlight the agency’s commitment to preserving marine resources and enforcing statutory regulations in state waters.
On the morning of 30 July, a Class B trawler was intercepted approximately 3.58 nautical miles west of Pulau Tukun Terindak. The vessel was spotted during routine patrols carried out under Operations SAYONG, KHAS TANJUNG 2, and TIRIS.
Maritime Captain Mohamad Shukri Khotob, Director of the Perak State Maritime Headquarters, confirmed that the patrol team detected the vessel engaging in fishing activities in a restricted zone.
Upon boarding and inspecting the vessel, authorities found it was being operated by a skipper accompanied by two crew members from Myanmar, aged between 39 and 49.
Preliminary investigations revealed multiple breaches of the conditions stipulated in their valid fishing licence under the Fisheries Act 1985.
The vessel was accused of fishing within five nautical miles of the coastline, a zone typically reserved for smaller, traditional craft to protect near-shore ecosystems.
Further infractions included the use of nets with a mesh size smaller than the mandated 38 millimetres, which poses a significant threat to juvenile fish populations and long-term stock sustainability.
Additionally, the licence condition requiring the owner to personally operate the vessel was reportedly violated.
The two foreign crew members also faced scrutiny under the Immigration Act 1959/63, as they were suspected of being in the country without valid identification documents.
All individuals on board were detained, and the vessel, along with its catch and fishing gear, was seized. The case has been handed over to the Malaysian Maritime Investigation Officer for further legal proceedings.
This action underscores the strict enforcement of zoning laws designed to balance commercial fishing interests with environmental conservation.
In a separate incident later that day, APMM personnel responded to a public complaint regarding suspicious activity near the Sungai Tiang estuary.
At approximately 2.00 pm, around 0.5 nautical miles west of the river mouth, patrol teams discovered several buoys floating on the water surface.
Upon investigation, these markers were linked to 31 sets of “bubu naga” or “bubu kamban”, commonly known as dragon traps.
These cylindrical traps are often deemed illegal due to their non-selective nature, capturing a wide range of marine life including juveniles and non-target species.
The seized equipment, estimated to be worth nearly RM4,000, was confiscated and submitted for investigation.
Authorities noted that the owner of such traps could face charges under Section 11(3)(c) of the Fisheries Act 1985 for using unauthorised fishing methods.
If convicted, offenders involved in the use of illegal traps can be fined up to RM20,000, imprisoned for up to two years, or both.
The severity of these penalties reflects the government’s zero-tolerance approach to practices that undermine marine biodiversity.
Captain Mohamad Shukri emphasised that these operations are part of a continuous effort to safeguard Perak’s maritime zones.
He urged fishermen to adhere strictly to licensing conditions and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities.
Community involvement plays a crucial role in detecting illegal operations, as seen in the successful seizure of the dragon traps following a civilian tip-off.
The dual incidents demonstrate the multifaceted challenges faced by maritime enforcement agencies. From monitoring vessel compliance and immigration status to removing destructive passive gear, the APMM remains vigilant in protecting the state’s aquatic resources.
As pressure on marine ecosystems grows, such enforcement actions serve as a deterrent to those who might otherwise exploit loopholes for short-term gain.
Residents and industry stakeholders are reminded that sustainable fishing practices are essential for the long-term viability of the sector.
By respecting zoning limits and using approved gear, fishermen contribute to the health of the ocean and the livelihoods of future generations.
The APMM continues to collaborate with other agencies to ensure that Perak’s waters remain productive and legally compliant.
