26-05-2025
Bruneian anglers dominate 13th Miri City International Deep Sea Fishing tourney
Ariffin inspects the impressive catches on display.
MIRI (May 26): The 13th Miri City International Deep Sea Fishing Tournament at the Marina Bay Jetty concluded Saturday, with Bruneian anglers dominating both individual and team categories.
The anglers spent five days and four nights battling the challenging waters of the South China Sea, and were dubbed 'warriors of the sea' by Miri deputy mayor Ariffin Mohammad.
'You faced burning sun, rolling waves and sleepless nights, yet your passion never wavered,' he said, acknowledging the tough conditions they had to endure.
Mohd Taib Alikhan won the individual category with a 40.08 kilogramme (kg) amberjack, followed by Mohd Sufian Maidin with a 17.56 kg Dogtooth and Choi Yong with a 15.24 kg Dogtooth.
In the team competition, Mohd Taib Alikhan, Mohd Sufian Maidin and Hardiman Jahar claimed first place with a combined catch of 47.36 kg.
Felix Huong Chee Fung, Dennis Wong, and Tie Jou Wei secured second prize with a total of 37.04 kg, while Mohammad Yusrisham Awg Yusof, Sahrol Ali, and Musmah Boby Hardi Mustapa took third with 37 kg.
Bong Teck Yew received a special award for the largest Giant Trevally, weighing 25.20kg.
Ariffin (back row, third left) takes a group photo with the participants and organisers of the tournament.
On sustainability, Ariffin stressed the shared responsibility to protect marine life.
'Your commitment to ethical fishing and marine conservation ensures these waters remain abundant. Let us keep leading by example for the fish, for the sport, and for future generations.'
He also announced plans for the 2026 tournament, emphasising bigger surprises and a warm welcome for anglers from around the world.
With a prize pool of RM70,000, including RM50,000 in cash and fishing equipment, the tournament drew anglers from across the region, further establishing Miri as one of Asia's leading big-game fishing destinations.
