Puchong, Malaysia – On a recent Sunday morning, a group of dedicated men, equipped with fishing nets, approached the banks of the Klang River, located just outside Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. These individuals, part of the country’s proactive “foreign fish hunter squad,” were on a mission to address the ecological balance of local water bodies.
As they cast their nets into the river, they quickly encountered an overwhelming number of suckermouth catfish, an invasive species that has proliferated in freshwater habitats across Southeast Asia. Their morning’s catch would not end up at local markets; instead, it was part of a concerted effort to control the population of invasive fish that threaten the biodiversity of Malaysia’s aquatic environments.
According to Mohamad Haziq A Rahman, the leader of the fish hunter squad, the presence of invasive species is alarming. These foreign fish, originally brought in for ornamental purposes, not only disrupt the local ecosystem by competing for resources but have also been known to spread diseases harmful to indigenous species. The urgency of the issue has prompted significant community engagement, with experts noting that over 80 percent of the rivers in the Klang Valley have been invaded by these foreign species.
Dr. Kalithasan Kailasam of the Global Environment Centre emphasized the ongoing risk to Malaysia’s unique marine life. Reports indicate that invasive species such as the suckermouth can thrive in polluted environments and are capable of rapid reproduction, further jeopardizing native fish populations. The country’s fisheries department, following extensive research, identified a troubling pattern in various waterways, revealing widespread invasive species presence.
The initiative to combat these invaders began during the COVID-19 lockdowns when Haziq took to fishing. He discovered that the suckermouth catfish, also known as “janitor fish” for its algae-eating habits, was dominating local waters. With their ecological friends at risk, Haziq gathered like-minded individuals, forming a group in 2022 focused on sustainable fishing practices and river rehabilitation.
As the citizen-led movement grew, reaching over 1,000 followers, their efforts turned productive. By 2024, the squad had successfully removed nearly 31 tonnes of suckermouth catfish from local rivers. Their dedication has not only raised awareness but also inspired creative solutions for disposing of the invasive species, including collaborations with local entrepreneurs for potential uses in manufacturing and food production.
While the fight against invasive species poses significant challenges, including potential natural disasters driven by increased flooding, the commitment of citizens like Haziq and his team stands as a testament to Malaysia’s environmental stewardship. Their ongoing efforts aim to restore balance to the river ecosystems and protect the indigenous species that have long thrived in these waters.
As the squad continues its mission, engaging in educational outreach and community awareness, they emphasize the importance of ongoing action to mitigate environmental challenges. Their experience highlights not only the complexities of ecological preservation but also celebrates the spirit of community activism in creating a sustainable future for Malaysia’s rich biodiversity.
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