Sharks sold in supermarket not endangered, says minister

 By Olivia Miwil - June 7, 2021 @ 6:43pm

Among the species of sharks listed under the two acts are whale sharks and hammerhead sharks, and sawfish and manta rays for stingrays.- NSTP file pic

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Agriculture and Fisheries Ministry has confirmed the sharks sold at a supermarket near here are not of endangered species.

Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said based on the picture which went viral on social media, the sharks sold were identified as the blackfin shark Carcharhinus sorrah and the long-snout shark C.brevipinna.

"These are the types of shark species caught by the fishermen in Sabah. They are not listed as endangered species either under the Fisheries Act 1985 (Act 317) or the International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008 (Act 686).

"This means that activities such as capturing and selling the species are not illegal," he said.

The business owner, however, has issued an apology letter and pledged not to sell the species.

Scuba divers including Blu Hope co-founder Monica Chin applauded the action, adding it could set an example for others to follow as it would benefit the shark diving industry.

Malaysia is home to more than 150 species of sharks and stingrays. Only 12 species are listed under Fisheries Act 1985, while 64 species are listed under International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008.

Among the species of sharks listed under the two acts are whale sharks and hammerhead sharks, and sawfish and manta rays for stingrays.

For the endangered species listed under Fisheries Act 1985, exploitation such as capturing, possessing, transporting, selling, and exporting is not permitted and if convicted, is liable to a fine not exceeding RM20,000 or imprisonment not exceeding two years or both.

For the endangered species listed under International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008, its exploitation is limited to the domestic level only, unless listed under Fisheries Act 1985.

In terms of international trade control, Sabah does not allow exports even to Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak or the Federal Territory of Labuan.

Any violation of this act is punishable with a fine up to RM1 million or imprisonment for up to seven years or both.

"The Sabah Fisheries Department through its Enforcement Unit will continue to carry out inspections at the key entries and exits, patrols on fishing operations and monitoring at fish markets and supermarkets on an ongoing basis.

"This is to ensure that fish resources, including sharks and stingrays, are efficiently managed," said Jeffrey, who is also state deputy chief minister.