KOTA KINABALU: The Marlin fish, a once common species for fishermen in Gaya Island, is still spotted regularly near the shore despite a decrease in its population and size.
Rajit Serong, 63, who has been going to the sea since he was 12 years old, said the species is commonly spotted early in the year.
In the 1980s, he said he used to catch the fish in groups of 15 at a time.
"This fish, which we call 'Ikan Layar' due to its fins spreading while jumping out of the water, was sold at a lower price compared to its look-alike species, swordfish or Menumbok.
"I remember selling a 25kg Marlin for the price of RM20 at Tuaran market.
"But now, I am surprised that it is sold at RM10 per kg," said Rajit, who is now the village chief of Kampung Lobong on the island.
Rajit further said although the population of the species has decreased in number and size compared to before, locals off the coast of Kota Kinabalu still frequently spot them near the shore.
"The predator is known to leap out of the water to prey on other fish.
"Fishermen still catch them, but it's a hazardous task as the species is powerful and dangerous. You need a sturdy fishing line because it can also jump and pierce humans or boats with its sword.
"Fishermen have been admitted to hospitals after being attacked by the fish. There have also been cases where boats with fishermen have gone missing.
"We suspect they were killed as there was a 'fluid' stain believed to be from the Marlin," he said.
Rajit added that the Marlin usually turns aggressive when it feels threatened.
A statue of the Marlin fish has been erected in the heart of Kota Kinabalu due to the frequent sightings of the species.
The giant statue, with the background of Gaya Island, was inaugurated on Feb 2, 2000, when Kota Kinabalu was granted city status.
The C.H.& Sons Group sponsored the statue, which was built by Julit Metal & Stainless-Steel Work.
The New Straits Times on Thursday reported on an up-close sighting of a blue Marlin in the waters off Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.
Meanwhile, Sabah Fisheries director Azhar Kassim said Marlin is famous for sport fishing.
"Marlin is a type of deep-sea fish and also often caught at the east coast at Lahad Datu, Kunak and Semporna waters.
"As for blue marlin, it is commonly found in Sabah's offshore waters."