By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 25: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg sees potential in developing sport fishing as a tourism asset, supported by artificial reefs that provide habitats for fish.
In a TVS news report, he proposed identifying suitable locations for more artificial reefs under the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), alongside efforts to protect existing coral reefs around the Talang-Talang Islands.
“I think with the coral reefs that we protect, they will certainly provide protection for the attractions around the Talang-Talang Islands.
“What we need is perhaps to install more artificial reefs through SFC’s artificial reef programme, and these will become homes for the fish,” he told reporters after flagging off the Rimbun International Sematan Run 2026 here today.
Artificial reefs have also been developed in several other parts of Sarawak, including Balingian and Mukah, as well as Batang Lupar and Sebuyau.
Abang Johari believes identifying suitable sites for further development could help establish sport fishing as another attraction for visitors to Sarawak.
“So if we can identify the locations and develop them, I think sport fishing will become an asset, and we already have our own airline.
“Yesterday, it also started flying to Jakarta. This means that with connectivity, the tourism sector will grow and provide employment opportunities,” he added.
He linked the development of marine and recreational attractions with improved air connectivity, saying both could help expand Sarawak’s tourism industry and create jobs.
The proposal forms part of the broader potential to diversify Sarawak’s tourism offerings beyond its existing coastal attractions. — DayakDaily
