Perak: The Perak Fisheries Department is aiming for zero presence of alien fish species in the state's river waters within the next five years, following concerns over their impact on ecosystems and the survival of native fish species.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Fisheries director Mohd Ghazali Abdul Manap acknowledged that this would not be an easy task. Non-indigenous fish species such as plecos, tilapia, redtail catfish, and Chao Phraya giant catfish have long existed in public waters, especially in Perak. He noted that the presence of plecos, primarily originating from the ornamental fish industry, poses a significant challenge. When owners can no longer manage them due to their growth and aggressive nature, they are released into public waters, disrupting the local ecosystem and damaging riverbanks.

Mohd Ghazali highlighted that various initiatives have been implemented since 2019 to achieve this target. These efforts include awareness campaigns on the impact of alien fish, conducted in collaboration with various parties, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs). He explained that the department organizes competitions to hunt for alien fish in the Pinji and Kinta rivers, which have resulted in catching about two tonnes of these species at one point. This method is seen as having potential due to its ability to attract public participation and facilitate broader involvement.

The department is also engaging with houses of worship to raise awareness against the indiscriminate release of non-native fish into rivers, even when done as part of religious rituals. Mohd Ghazali emphasized the importance of proposing native species for religious purposes to avoid harming the aquatic environment.

He further stated that any parties, including NGOs, interested in conducting alien fish hunting activities in Perak must first obtain approval from the department. Such approval is crucial to ensure the activity is carried out legally and does not harm native fish species inhabiting the area.