SPIA Nets 52 Tonnes Of Invasive ‘Ikan Bandaraya’ Since 2022 Across Peninsular Malaysia

IPOH, July 12 (Bernama) -- The Skuad Pemburu Ikan Asing (SPIA) Malaysia, an invasive fish hunting squad, has recorded more than 52 tonnes of ‘ikan bandaraya’ caught across Peninsular Malaysia since its formation in 2022.

Founder Mohamad Haziq A. Rahman said of the total, about 30 tonnes were caught in the Klang Valley, particularly in Selangor, while the remaining 22 tonnes were from other states, including Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, Melaka, Penang and Kedah.

“This data confirms that ikan bandaraya is one of the dominant invasive species in our rivers, posing serious threats to native aquatic species and disrupting the ecosystem.

“To date, we have not extended our fish-catching efforts to the East Coast states,” he said at the Grand Prix Invasive Fish Hunting Programme organised by the Perak Fisheries Department at Taman Dr Seevinisagam here today.

SPIA Malaysia is a grassroots community founded by anglers and inland fishermen, operating voluntarily to control the spread of foreign species. The group now has more than 1,000 active members across the peninsula.

Despite consistent efforts over the past two years, Mohamad Haziq said the population of the species remains alarmingly high in many major rivers.

“At several new locations, we’ve managed to catch up to two tonnes in just one to two hours with increased manpower. This reflects the species’ widespread presence and underscores the need for more aggressive measures,” he added.

He also noted increased public awareness of the issue, spurred by viral posts on social media and growing interest in conserving local waterways.

“The competition organised by the Perak Fisheries Department is one example of conservation efforts. We hope such efforts will continue to curb the ecological impact of these invasive fish,” he said.

Meanwhile, Perak Science, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Teh Kok Lim reminded the public that the State Fisheries Department must approve the release of freshwater fish into public waterways.

He said such measures are necessary to avoid ecological disruption and protect communities, particularly local fisheries and eco-tourism operators.

“The state government views this matter seriously. Many invasive species such as red-tailed baung, peacock bass and ikan bandaraya have been released into our waters.

“I would like to remind the public that releasing foreign fish species without approval is a punishable offence under the Fisheries Act 1985 and related regulations,” he said.

-- BERNAMA