By Olivia Miwil
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has welcomed sweeping changes to fisheries laws, with stakeholders urging stricter enforcement to protect marine life and curb illegal fishing.
The Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2025 [Act A1780], which came into force on June 15, marks a significant step in strengthening governance in the country's fisheries sector, combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and protecting fisheries resources to safeguard national food security.
The general penalty under Section 25 has been increased from RM20,000 to RM100,000, while offences involving explosives, poisons, pollutants, electric currents and prohibited equipment under Section 26 may carry a maximum fine of RM250,000 and a jail term of up to five years.
Stakeholders have broadly welcomed the move but say stronger enforcement is needed to ensure compliance.
Stop Fish Bombing Malaysia executive director Terence Lim described the amendment as a positive step, noting federal recognition of the issue.
"The fines and prison terms reflect the seriousness of these illegal activities and the authorities' acknowledgement of the issue," he said.
"However, it must also be made clear to the public that anyone found in possession of bombed fish or fish caught illegally can and will be prosecuted under this new Act."
Lim also warned against misunderstanding the scope of enforcement.
"The perception is that only those catching fish using bombs are liable to be prosecuted," he said.
The amendment also allows fisheries activities to be prohibited in waters affected by harmful algal blooms or chemical contamination.
In July 2019, a local diving instructor and two Chinese tourists were killed by fish bombs while diving off Pulau Kulapuan near Semporna.
Sabah Dive Squad Club welcomed the tougher penalties, particularly those involving marine mammals and sea turtles.
Its president, Sim Fui, said public awareness remained low about the impact of human interaction with marine life.
"In reality, such actions can result in severe stress, injuries, behavioural changes, interrupted feeding patterns and reduced breeding success," he said.
"Sea turtles, in particular, are protected species and play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Disturbing turtles during feeding, resting, mating or nesting activities can negatively impact their survival and reproductive success."
He said recent incidents included people restraining sea turtles for photographs and divers being recorded grabbing and disturbing whale sharks.
Marine Research Foundation executive director Dr Nicolas Pilcher described the amendment as a major step forward in sustainable fisheries management.
"We are especially pleased to see penalties for offences involving sea turtles increased to better reflect their ecological value," he said.
He warned, however, that trawl fisheries continue to affect sea turtles across Malaysian waters.
"The disposal of these turtles at sea means the impacts often remain out of sight and out of mind, going undetected and unpenalised, while turtles pay the ultimate price."
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