THE successful release of 10,000 tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) off the coast of Pulau Betong has marked a significant milestone in the Penang South Island (PSI) Ecology Offset Masterplan (PEOM), a key initiative aimed at enhancing fishery resources and strengthening marine conservation.
Held on Feb 24, the event saw participation from representatives of key government agencies and relevant departments, underscoring the commitment to sustainable marine biodiversity efforts.
Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PICSB) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus emphasised the importance of the restocking programme as part of PEOM’s broader marine conservation agenda.
“Beyond reaffirming our dedication to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries, this initiative serves as a pilot project to assess the effectiveness of fish and shrimp restocking in Penang’s southern waters.
“The insights gained will be invaluable for future conservation efforts,” he said.
Farizan also acknowledged the contributions of the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in guiding the initiative.
He paid tribute to the late Prof Datuk Dr Zulfigar Yasin, a leading figure in marine ecosystem restoration, who was instrumental in shaping the research behind PEOM before his passing on Feb 3.
“Although he is no longer with us, we are committed to carrying forward his legacy by turning his vision into meaningful action,” he added.
The restocking initiative, which officially launches a large-scale marine biodiversity restoration effort, will see an additional 42,000 tiger prawns and 25,000 seabass (Lates calcarifer) released in phases over the next five months near Pulau Betong and Pulau Kendi.
The programme is a collaborative effort between the Penang government, through project developer Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd, CEMACS, and key government agencies.
CEMACS director Prof Datuk Dr Aileen Tan highlighted the careful scientific and environmental considerations behind the selection of species for restocking.
“We follow strict ecological criteria to ensure that the restocking does not disrupt the existing marine ecosystem.
“Only native species with high survival rates in Penang’s waters are introduced,” she explained.
She added that continuous monitoring and genetic studies would be conducted to assess the movement and migratory patterns of the released shrimp and fish, ensuring the programme’s long-term success.
Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustainable fishery resources, stressing the direct benefits for local fishing communities.
“Healthy marine biodiversity translates to better livelihoods for our coastal fishermen.
“We anticipate that this initiative will bring lasting positive impacts to our marine ecosystem,” he said.
The event was attended by Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Management director Azmi Mohamad, representatives from the offices of Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid and Fahmi Zainol, as well as officials from the Penang Fisheries Department, Batu Maung Fisheries Research Institute, Penang Environmental Department, Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority, and the Southwest District and Land Office.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix courtesy of Silicon Island Development