BELAWAI: The Sarawak Marine Fisheries Department (JPLS) has been urged to expand its artificial reef programme to the waters off Kuala Rajang and Kuala Paloh to ensure the long-term sustainability of marine resources and safeguard fishermen’s livelihoods.
Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the proposal should be considered following the positive impact of the artificial reef project previously implemented in the Kuala Paloh waters.
He said more than 30 net barrier artificial reefs were deployed by JPLS in the Kuala Paloh waters in 2025 to protect marine habitats while curbing fishing activities that could harm the ecosystem.
“I hope JPLS will consider deploying more artificial reefs in the waters around Kuala Rajang and Kuala Paloh so that marine resources in these areas can continue to be preserved while benefiting the local fishing community,” he said when speaking at the 2026 Belawai Fishermen Touch Point Assistance Presentation and Engagement Programme held here recently.
Len, who is also Kuala Rajang assemblyman, said artificial reefs play an important role in providing shelter and breeding grounds for marine life, thereby helping to replenish fish stocks in the surrounding waters.
He said marine conservation efforts must be carried out continuously, as the fisheries sector remains one of the main contributors to the economy of coastal communities, particularly in the Kuala Rajang area.
Len stressed that developing the fisheries industry should not rely solely on providing assistance and facilities to fishermen, but must also be supported by effective measures to conserve marine resources.
He added that sustainable fisheries resource management would help ensure a continuous supply of seafood while enabling fishermen to enjoy more stable catches and improve their household incomes.
