The Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) has confiscated hundreds of prohibited and invasive fish, along with high-value protected turtles, in a large-scale enforcement operation targeting the ornamental pet trade.
A joint task force comprising 42 officers from DOF, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), and Kuala Lumpur City Hall conducted raids on six premises along Jalan Pudu on Thursday.
Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya Fisheries director Suhanah Kassiron confirmed that all six locations violated the Fisheries (Inland Fisheries Aquaculture) Rules 2017. Authorities seized 675 fish of various prohibited species, valued at approximately RM35,674.
The confiscated species included invasive fish such as Arapaima, Sturgeon, Midas, Peacock bass, Cambaridae crayfish, Amazon Redtail Catfish, Pacu, and Flowerhorn. Suhanah warned that releasing these species into public waters could harm local ecosystems and urged the public to avoid keeping or releasing such fish.
Violators face fines of up to RM1,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both for each offence.
In a related action, Perhilitan National Wildlife Rescue Centre assistant director Celescoriano Razond announced the seizure of 304 turtles and tortoises worth about RM300,000. High-value species included Pig-nosed Turtles and Albino Tortoises, which can sell for RM9,000–RM10,000 each. Investigations are ongoing under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010.
All seized animals have been transferred to the Selangor Fisheries Biosecurity Centre for safekeeping and further action.
