KOTA KINABALU: Stop irresponsible individuals from encroaching and setting off underwater explosives at Sabah’s protected marine areas!
That was the plea from tourism industry players to the state Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry.
They were concerned over the rise of fish bombing in the supposedly-protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park here.
The industry players said such activity was not only harming marine life, but also posed a deadly risk to humans.
Dive Rangers founder Jude Junius said the recent incident affecting 13 tourists, divers and master divers was a shame as the marine park contained marine life and coral reefs that were unique to the state’s tourism.
“Marine life is a long-term tourism crowd-puller, and it provides jobs for young locals and presents opportunities for service providers in the industry.
“The state tourism, culture and environment minister should give priority to ensure that no intruders can cause harm at the marine park.
Jude, who is secretary of Sabah Subsea Professionals Association, said there was also proof of fishermen installing 50 to 100m-long nets in the area.
He said fish bombing in the state was occurring at a very alarming rate.
“It’s high time to make changes now before we lose our heritage out of ignorance and the inability to foresee the definite outcome.
“Fishermen from an island in the marine park are harvesting our heritage and causing a big imbalance to the ecosystem. They seem to be unaware that it (fishing in a marine park, especially with illegal methods) is prohibited,” he said.
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park covers five islands, namely Pulau Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, Sulug and Gaya. Out of all those islands, only Pulau Gaya is inhabited.
Jude claimed that reef fish species caught from the marine park were openly sold at fish markets here.
“Nothing concrete is being done to stop this other than the authorities conducting random, inconsistent patrols.
“We cannot continue to turn a blind eye. The Sabah Parks body is charging visitors a conservation fee, but it seems that no effort is being put in to protect the area. It is like imposing an entrance fee under the guise of protecting Sabah’s heritage.
“It makes all the tourism service providers, especially diving shop owners look bad by somehow being a part of this irresponsible act,” said Jude.
Sabah Tourists Association chairman Tony Chew said the recent underwater explosions could further worsen the situation for the industry as fewer visitors were expected in the state due to the coronavirus outbreak in China.
“It’s sad to know this continues to happen amid such a difficult time in the tourism industry.
“It is adding salt to the wound and may destroy the last few resources of tourist operators, who depend on these things to sustain themselves through this difficult time,” Tony said.
To reduce and combat illegal fishing, he said, the authorities should impose heavier punishment on those convicted of destroying the state’s marine resources.