IPOH: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has removed more “bubu naga” fish traps, with 50 of them found approximately 1.4 nautical miles (2.6km) west of Kuala Gula in Bagan Serai. The traps were discovered during a routine patrol of Kerian and Larut Matang waters on Thursday (Oct 26), according to Kuala Kurau MMEA director Mohd Najhan Azman Hamid. He stated that the traps, worth an estimated RM4 million, have been brought to the Kuala Kurau maritime zone jetty for further action. The case will be investigated under Section 11(3)(c) of the Fisheries Act 1985 for setting up unlicensed fish traps, Mohd Najhan added. He urged the maritime community, particularly fishermen, to protect the marine ecosystem and only use authorized fishing methods. For any reports, complaints, or emergencies, individuals can contact the 999 emergency response line or the Kuala Kurau maritime operations centre at 05-727 9919.
ALSO READ: 31 sets of illegal ‘bubu naga’ fish traps seized near Pantai Remis
The use of bubu naga is harmful to the food chain as these small nets capture marine animals of all sizes, leading to a smaller population in the ecosystem. These traps are often placed near estuaries where fish, prawns, and crabs live and reproduce. Earlier on Monday (Oct 23), the Perak MMEA seized 31 of these illegal traps near Pulau Talang off Pantai Remis in Manjung.
