Rogue fishers still blast the depths

The Star

08-06-2025

Explosive danger: Damaged coral beds and dead marine species are tragic reminders that the destructive practice of fish bombing remains a threat.
KOTA KINABALU: Fish bombing. A mere two-word term but the destructive act, which began decades ago in Sabah, has yet to be stopped.
'It is still happening despite the increased patrols and awareness programmes held for the locals,' said Deus Diving Club (DDC) president Sim Fui.
'We believe stronger and more consistent enforcement is key.
'This includes tighter maritime surveillance in known hotspots and community-based intelligence gathering involving local fishermen and dive operators,' he said.
He suggested that there be stricter penalties for offenders to serve as deterrents.
Under the Fisheries Act, fish bombing is punishable with fines not exceeding RM20,000 or a jail term of up to two years or both.
According to Save Our Seas Foundation, fishermen use home-made bottle bombs packed with fertiliser and kerosene, which are detonated by a fuse inserted through the top.
Sim said there should also be increased funding and training for enforcement agencies such as the marine police and Sabah Parks, adding that more education and outreach programmes should be held for coastal communities to promote sustainable fishing alternatives.
Sim said the DDC is a community of divers and ocean advocates concerned about the persistence of fish bombing, particularly around the west coast and the northern reefs.
He said the underwater explosions, damaged coral beds, and dead marine species are tragic reminders that this destructive practice remains a threat.
The dangers of fish bombing extend beyond ecological destruction as it poses serious danger to recreational divers, marine researchers, and local communities, he said.
He said that sudden under­water explosions can cause barotrauma, disorientation, or even fatalities to divers in the vicinity.
Ultimately, he said that protecting Sabah's marine heritage is a shared responsibility.
'We call upon all stakeholders – from authorities to NGOs to tourism operators – to work together towards a future where our oceans are safe and thriving with fish bombing a thing of the past,' he said.
He acknowledged fish bombing cases are not as rampant as before.
'But we still receive occasional reports from our members and dive operators, especially in less patrolled areas,' he said.
In fact, recent engagement ­programmes with coastal communities found that some fishermen even lost their limbs due to fish bombing.
A news report six months ago said that a sea gypsy was fishing in waters off Semporna several years ago when his boat sank after a sudden blast at sea.
Though his friends came to his aid, he had also lost part of his arm.
His testimony was shared in a documentary on the sea people of Sabah during a conference on plastic pollution and fish bombing organised by environmental organisation Blu Hope.
Previous reports by authorities show that raids on fishing vessels often lead to the seizure of explosives believed to be used for illegal fishing.