Kuala Selangor:The Department of Fisheries (DOF) has deployed a total of 252 artificial reefs in Selangor waters since 2006, aiming to conserve the state's fishery resources and marine ecosystem.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the reefs include soft-bottom types, soft-bottom trawl-blocking reefs, and hybrid unjam, strategically placed around Kuala Langat, Sepang, Kuala Selangor, and Sabak Bernam. Datuk Adnan Hussain, DOF director-general, highlighted that the recent deployment included 18 additional reefs in the Gulang-Gulang waters of Kuala Selangor.

Adnan emphasized that this initiative is part of the government's efforts to conserve fishery resources and support the livelihoods of fishing communities. The artificial reefs offer shelter and breeding grounds for marine life while protecting the waters from illegal trawling activities.

The program, funded by a Federal government allocation, is set to benefit 1,111 registered fishermen in Kuala Selangor, including 332 Zone A fishermen. Fishing remains a vital contributor to the district's economy, with 20,394.06 metric tonnes of fish landings recorded last year and 12,141.83 metric tonnes from January to July this year.

Selangor recorded 150,253.51 metric tonnes of fish landings last year and 64,245.39 metric tonnes for the same period this year. Adnan stated that the DOF will continue collaborating with relevant agencies and fishing communities to ensure the optimal functioning of these artificial reefs.