The Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) has successfully launched a conservation artificial reef docking programme in the waters of the state of Terengganu which was officiated by YB Dr. Azman Ibrahim, Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, Food Industry, Plantations, Commodities and Rural Development.
A total of 12 units of artificial reefs of the cuboid type juvenile tow trawler were docked in the waters of Pulau Kapas Marine Park and the waters of Pulau Redang for conservation purposes worth RM400,000.
The state of Terengganu receives an allocation for the development of artificial reefs under the DOF every year along the 11th to 12th MP (2021 to 2025) amounting to RM11.28 million. Meanwhile, for the period 2021 to 2024, a total of 46 reef units were docked at six locations in the state of Terengganu with an allocation of RM 1.357 million.
This program is also one of the long-term efforts and the Department of Fisheries’ move with the state government in conserving and enhancing marine fisheries resources can benefit 8,309 fishermen in the state of Terengganu as well as curb fishing activities using non-resource-friendly equipment in coastal waters.
Also present at the event was Encik Ruzaidi bin Mamat, Director of Fisheries Terengganu, Encik Azlan bin Md Nor Head of Ecosystem Conservation and Biodiversity Branch and state fisheries officers.