Universiti Selangor (UNISEL), through The Tomanz, organized a fishing competition aimed at controlling the invasive ‘Peacock Bass’ species.
The competition, which began at 7:30 a.m., was held at the Bird Sanctuary Lake and drew around 130 anglers from across the state, with a significant number from Johor joining alongside Selangor participants.
The event was officiated by Tuan Haji Ts. Saipolyazan Mat Yusop, Chief Executive Officer of MBI Selangor. In his opening speech, he commended UNISEL’s efforts to combat the invasive Peacock Bass species.
“I fully support UNISEL’s collaboration with KAYAX, Monstercraft Fishing, Fishing Tag Malaysia, and Boatyard MY to address the invasion of this foreign fish species, which has threatened the local ecosystem and native fish populations,”
He also expressed hope that this initiative will enhance Bird Sanctuary Lake as a center for ecotourism in Selangor and further promote fishing sports among the local community, especially within the state.
According to Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mohammad Redzuan Othman, President and Vice-Chancellor of UNISEL, Bird Sanctuary Lake has long been a habitat for local fish species like toman, sebarau, and baung. However, recent reports indicate the presence of the invasive Peacock Bass species in the lake.
“The presence of Peacock Bass has caused the once-thriving native fish populations to dwindle as they are forced to compete with this invasive species. The impact is substantial, with Peacock Bass not only acting as predators but also disrupting the lake’s natural biodiversity balance,” he explained.
The competition crowned Mohd Khairul Asyraf as the winner, earning a cash prize of RM1,000. Second place went to Mohamad Aizaruddin Azmi, who won RM500, while third place was secured by Chan Kah Heng, who received RM300.
