GEDONG: Some 2,500 tinfoil barb fingerlings, locally known as “tengadak”, have been released into the upper reaches of Sungai Skrang to replenish fish stocks and support local inland fishermen.
The release covered the Sungai Engkuan and Ulu Merbau areas, where fishing remains a source of income for the surrounding communities.
Premier’s special representative in Gedong, Datuk Seri Mohd Naroden Majais, said maintaining fish populations was important to ensure the river could continue supporting local livelihoods.
“This conservation effort is important to ensure the income and livelihood of inland fishermen can be sustained,” he said on Sunday (Sept 20).
The release was part of the Youth Exploration Programme organised by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) through Gedong Youth Club.
About 150 local youths took part in the programme involving 43 boats.
Mohd Naroden said the initiative also aimed to strengthen public awareness of the need to protect rivers and keep them clean and safe.
A “No Dumping” sign was installed during the programme as part of efforts to discourage rubbish disposal into the river.
Participants also took part in a land-based cast-net competition, with trophies and cash prizes presented to the winners.
