DOF Deploys 12 Artificial Reefs In Rompin Waters To Boost Fishery Resources

ROMPIN, Aug 9 (Bernama) -- The Department of Fisheries (DOF) today deployed 12 cuboid artificial reefs in the waters off Pulau Sembilang and Pulau Seri Buat here to curb trawling, protect marine habitats, and provide breeding grounds for fishery resources.

Fisheries Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain said the artificial reefs served as a physical barrier against illegal trawling and helped create new habitats that stimulated the growth of fishery stocks and increased marine biodiversity.

“These artificial reefs are a long-term investment to ensure the sustainability of fishery resources, restore water productivity, and protect the livelihoods of the fishing community.

“It is a continuation of the DOF’s efforts to ensure the country’s fishery resources remain sustainable for future generations,” he said in a media statement today.

The project involves a cost of RM366,750, funded through an allocation under the Fifth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan.

In addition to Rompin, 12 cuboid artificial reefs will be anchored in the waters off Pulau Berhala, Pekan, in October this year.

For the record, between 2020 and 2025, Pahang received 53 artificial reefs at a total cost of RM2.03 million. Since 2007, a total of 244 artificial reefs have been anchored in the state’s waters, covering locations including Rompin, Pekan, Kuantan, Pulau Tioman, Cherating, Cherok Paloh and Nenasi.

“The implementation of this artificial reef project is expected to increase fishery stocks, restore affected marine habitats, and provide ongoing benefits to the local fishing community,” said Adnan.

-- BERNAMA