SEMPORNA: A spearfishing incident occurred again in Semporna, with an eco-activist describing it as "a clear violation" of the conservation efforts in the reef.
Tropical Research and Conservation Centre director Robin Philippo said that on Nov 28, at approximately 5p.m., he was diving on their house reef off Pom Pom Island.
During the dive, he noticed three divers moving unusually fast, prompting him and his partner to investigate further.
"Immediately upon descending (into the water), a diver seemingly swam alone at a very fast pace.
"As we swam closer, we saw all three divers were carrying spearguns and multiple dead fish behind them.
"Despite being caught red handed they still managed to get away due to an unsafe ascent to the surface and speedy departure on their boat," he told the New Straits Times.
In June, Sabah Dive Squad Club had also raised similar safety concerns over the spearfishing incident in Mabul, Semporna.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/1060411/spearfishing-incident...
Philippo said Pom Pom Island is a key marine conservation site off the coast of Semporna.
He added that TRACC Borneo has been dedicated to the restoration of Pom Pom's fish populations for over a decade, with daily research, training, and survey dives taking place on the reef.
"The presence of spearfishers in this protected area is a significant threat not only to the marine ecosystem but also to the safety of divers," Philippo said.
"The centre is particularly concerned about the risks posed to national and international volunteers and tourists who frequent the island for educational and recreational purposes," he said.
"This incident goes against everything we stand for. We've worked tirelessly to restore the fish populations here, only to see them removed by spearfishers while scuba diving," Philippo said.
"It's a major hazard and a clear violation of the conservation efforts on this reef."
Philippo hopes that the power of social media will help raise awareness and lead to the identification and potential prosecution of those responsible.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/xgNNYpJhub6ACgea/?mibextid=WC7FNe
The conservation centre also appealed to the public for assistance in spreading the word and discouraging others from engaging in illegal spearfishing activities.
The centre is calling for stronger enforcement of regulations in the area to protect marine life and ensure the safety of divers.