PEKAN, May 31, 2025 – The Department of Fisheries Malaysia, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, celebrated the success of its Invasive Species Awareness Program and “Moh! Tangkap Baung Ekor Merah” Competition at Pekan Riverfront, Pahang. The initiative underscored ongoing efforts to educate the public about the threats posed by invasive fish species to the nation’s inland water ecosystems.
The closing ceremony was officiated by Dato’ Mohd Sharim Haji Md Zain, Chini State Assemblyman, with the presence of the Director-General of Fisheries Malaysia, Dato’ Haji Adnan bin Hussain.
Dato’ Haji Adnan highlighted Malaysia’s rich biodiversity, with over 449 native freshwater fish species, including kelah, temoleh, sebarau, and river baung, which are vital for ecological and economic reasons. However, invasive species like peacock bass, African catfish, red-tailed baung, and bandaraya fish threaten this balance.
“These aggressive species breed rapidly and outcompete native fish for food and habitat. Since 2022, we’ve removed over 4.4 metric tons of invasive species through 17 targeted activities,” he said.
Beyond controlling invasive species, the Department is committed to conservation, releasing over 38.3 million native fish seeds into public waters during the 12th Malaysia Plan, establishing 13 inland fisheries sanctuaries, and listing native species under state fisheries regulations. According to the 2024 Fisheries Statistics, inland fisheries production rose to 9,652 metric tons, valued at RM190.7 million, up from 9,442 metric tons worth RM179.7 million in 2023.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from local communities and anglers nationwide, focusing on catching the invasive red-tailed baung (Hemibagrus wyckioides), a Mekong River species increasingly prevalent in local rivers.
Dato’ Mohd Sharim emphasized the importance of inland fisheries to national food security, noting that Pahang alone has 2,703 registered inland fishermen, including 733 from Pekan.
“In 2024, Pahang’s freshwater fish landings reached 2,218 metric tons, valued at RM64.25 million, showcasing the sector’s economic potential,” he added.
The Department also distributed RM331,400 in Matching Grants under the Aquaculture Integration Development Program (PPIA) to three key participants of the Rizqi Cluster in Kampung Peramu, Pekan, and RM66,000 in Inland Fishermen’s Living Allowances (ESHND) to 22 local fishermen.
Held across 13 strategic locations nationwide in May 2025, the program aims to raise public awareness, conserve inland water biodiversity, and encourage community involvement. These efforts are expected to curb invasive species populations and maintain ecological balance.