The Department of Fisheries releases 32,000 native fish fries in Jerantut to rebuild populations and boost ecotourism.
KUANTAN: The Department of Fisheries (DOF) has reinforced its inland fisheries conservation programme by releasing 32,000 native fish fries into their natural habitat at the Kuala Sat Fish Sanctuary in Jerantut.
The ikan kelah (Mahseer) and lampam (tinfoil barb) release programme reflects the DOF’s continued commitment to rebuilding native fish populations, enhancing inland fisheries resources and maintaining the ecological balance of freshwater habitats.
Director-General of Fisheries Datuk Adnan Hussain said in a statement today that the programme went beyond conserving native fish species, aiming also to ensure fisheries resources generated benefits for communities through ecotourism and enhanced local economic development.
“The release of ikan kelah and lampam fry forms part of the department’s continued efforts to restore indigenous fish populations and preserve the nation’s biodiversity heritage,” he said.
He also called on the public to avoid releasing non-native fish species into rivers, lakes or other public water bodies, saying they posed a threat to native fish and the ecological balance.
He said individuals or organisations intending to conduct fish release programmes should first seek technical guidance from the Fisheries Department office.
The DOF said that it had carried out the release of 2,741,652 native fish fry throughout the country up to June, of which 941,510 were released in Pahang, adding that the initiative reflects the government’s dedication to maintaining the sustainability of inland fisheries resources while restoring native fish stocks for the benefit of future generations.
Meanwhile, the country’s inland fisheries sector registered total landings of 9,912.19 metric tonnes in 2025, with an overall value of more than RM200 million.
