KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 29,076.19sqkm, or 5.39 per cent of Malaysia’s waters, have been gazetted as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in efforts to conserve marine ecosystems.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the move aims to provide natural breeding and nurturing grounds for fish stocks.
“The government continues to expand efforts to conserve marine ecosystems through the gazettement of protected areas, such as marine parks, sanctuaries and refugia zones.
“In Pahang, nine marine parks have been gazetted, namely, Pulau Tioman, Pulau Tulai, Pulau Ceben, Pulau Labas, Pulau Sepoi, Pulau Jahat, Pulau Tokong Bahara, Pulau Seri Buat and Pulau Sembilang.
“These areas play a vital role in protecting sensitive marine habitats, supporting fish stock recovery, and providing direct benefits to traditional fishers in surrounding waters,” he said in a parliamentary written reply.
He was responding to queries from Datuk Seri Sh Mohmed Puzi Sh Ali (BN–Pekan), who asked about progressive measures to address declining catches among traditional fishers, which have been worsening due to climate change, marine pollution and illegal fishing activities by irresponsible parties.
Mohamad added that the government has also intensified the deployment of artificial reefs to restore habitats and increase fish biomass.
“Between 2016 and 2025, a total of 2,770 artificial reefs have been deployed nationwide.
“In Pahang waters alone, around 309 units have been installed, particularly in trawl ban zones.
“This initiative not only helps restore seabed habitats but also reduces conflicts between small-scale traditional fishers and larger commercial operators, while increasing sustainable catch opportunities for small fishers.”
Under the 13th Malaysia Plan for 2026, RM750,000 has been allocated to expand three artificial reef sites in Pahang, with each site valued at RM250,000.
Mohamad added that traditional fishers are trained to act as resource stewards through stock monitoring programmes, reporting of illegal activities, and maintenance of reefs and protected areas.
“Enforcement and security of fisheries resources have also been strengthened, with RM56.8 million allocated in 2025 for Monitoring, Control and Surveillance activities to combat illegal foreign fishing, breaches of fishing zones, and the use of prohibited fishing gear, particularly in traditional fishing areas.
“Overall, the government’s approach focuses on resource protection, ecosystem recovery, and effective enforcement to gradually stabilise traditional fishers’ catches and ensure the long-term sustainability of the country’s fisheries sector.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
