Kahang:Johor: The Johor Department of Fisheries (DOF) has undertaken the release of one million fish fry of various species into public waters across the state this year, focusing primarily on river areas. This initiative aims to restore inland fishery resources and support 1,129 inland fishermen.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the fish fry release program is one of the strategies implemented by the Johor DOF to combat habitat degradation, fishing pressure, and pollution that are impacting inland fishery resources.

The program is not only vital for replenishing native fish stocks in the face of threats from alien fish species but also plays a role in preserving inland aquatic ecosystems for future generations. Rosmawati Ghazali, the department's director, emphasized the program's role in boosting fish stocks and raising public awareness about conservation efforts.

During the Native Fish Fry Release Programme at the Sungai Peroh Orang Asli Village in Kahang, 15,000 fish fry of the baung, sebarau, and lampam species were released. Rosmawati also called on the inland fishing community to act as the department's 'eyes and ears' by reporting any activities that could harm river habitats and fish populations.

Furthermore, she encouraged fishermen to engage with the myKomuniti Perikanan (myKP) initiative to report illegal activities and fishing methods detrimental to fishery resources, as unchecked activities could disrupt fish breeding and result in losses for the fishing community.