He said although the exact loss could not be ascertained, the amount mentioned was based on records and observation by the Fishery Department, as well as reports from local fishermen.

 

"To overcome the problem of encroachment by foreign fishermen, the government has been intensifying sea and aerial surveillance involving various enforcement agencies like the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Air Force, police and Fishery Department," he said on Monday (June 28).

 

Mohd Johari said besides joint operations four times a year involving these agencies, the ministry also collaborated with companies operating the oil production platforms as well as local fishermen for information on encroachment of Malaysian waters by foreign fishermen.

 

Mohd Johari also said actions taken by the Department of Marine Parks to protect gazetted islands include enforcement action on fishing boats found encroaching on the marine park waters and prohibiting destructive methods of fishing.