SERDANG, May 31, 2025 – The Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) has taken swift action following the unauthorized release of 2,000 kilograms of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), approximately 1,300 fish averaging 1.5 kilograms each, into MAEPS Lake, Serdang, Selangor, on May 29, 2025. The release, conducted by organizers of a fishing competition during MARDI’s Showtech 2025, occurred without prior consultation or technical advice from the Selangor State Fisheries Office.
A site visit and engagement session on May 30, 2025, involving DOF, MARDI, and the event management company, confirmed the incident. DOF emphasized that releasing non-native species into public waters threatens ecological balance, endangers local species, and poses long-term risks to national fisheries resources. To prevent such incidents, DOF is strengthening regulations and intensifying awareness campaigns through mass and electronic media.
The investigation revealed that MAEPS Lake has robust water control systems, including a sedimentation pond, two-inch mesh netting at the outlet, and enclosed connecting areas. Natural predators like otters and monitor lizards are also present. To mitigate the issue, agreed measures include the event organizer installing additional hapa nets, providing collection bins for caught catfish, distributing awareness materials, and conducting continuous fishing activities during the event. MARDI will ensure net compliance, open the lake for controlled fishing, and coordinate post-event inventory and disposal of non-native fish. DOF will support these efforts with awareness materials and technical guidance.
DOF urges all parties, including event organizers, government agencies, and private entities, to consult the State Fisheries Office before releasing fish into public waters to avoid negative environmental impacts. Collaborative commitment is vital to preserving Malaysia’s biodiversity for future generations.
