KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has called for further research on the breeding of terubuk fish using advanced technology.
In stating this he highlighted the new submarine device capable of diving up to 300 metres to observe and collect underwater data.
“According to our scientists here, by analysing water samples and the collected data, we can gather valuable information about the habitat in that area.
“With this new technology, I would like to request further research to explore whether we can breed terubuk fish using advanced techniques.
“This is because terubuk fish have a unique characteristic whereby they change gender as they grow,” he said to reporters after officiating the opening of Wisma Lestari at Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), Jalan Sungai Tapang, Kota Sentosa here today (Feb 18).
He urged researchers to explore whether terubuk fish can be bred using modern techniques, emphasising their unique gender-changing characteristic.
“Smaller ones undergo a gender transition. Our people call them ‘ikan perit’. When they are small, they are known as ‘ikan perit’, but as they mature and change gender, they become terubuk fish.
“We want to study how to breed terubuk fish effectively. The terubuk fish in Batang Lupar, Batang Lassa, and Rajang have slight differences,” he added.
Abang Johari also noted claims that Sarawak terubuk fish are related to those found in Bangladesh, as Bangladesh is known for producing the fish species.
“With this device, we may be able to conduct research to ensure the sustainable breeding of terubuk fish and prevent their extinction,” he said.
Earlier, Abang Johari witnessed the exchange of two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) documents.
The first MOU was between Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC), and SFC which establishes a framework for research collaboration and talent development in areas of mutual interests for both parties.
Meanwhile, the second MOU document exchange was between SFC and Universiti Malaya (UM).
This MOU aims to enhance, promote and strengthen academic and research, founded on principles of equality and mutual benefit.
