JASIN, Nov 5 – Fishermen in Pantai Siring, Pulai, are facing growing financial difficulties as a shallow river mouth makes it harder for their boats to enter and leave the sea.
The problem is caused by the build-up of silt, which has reduced the depth of the river mouth. As a result, fishermen must carefully plan their trips around the tides.
For some, this means spending less time at sea and losing valuable opportunities to catch fish.
Low Tide Limits Fishing Time
Local fisherman Rizuan Abu Samah, 43, said the changing tide determines when boats can safely leave the area.
He explained that fishermen may be able to head out at 7am on one day but have to wait until 8am the next day.
Returning at the wrong time can also leave boats stranded in the shallow water.
Rizuan said some fishermen get only about an hour to fish before they must return to shore. They may then have to wait until the evening tide before going out again.
Fishermen Call for Jetty and Breakwater Upgrades
Apart from the shallow river mouth, fishermen are also concerned about the condition of local facilities.
Rizuan urged the authorities to upgrade the jetty, which was built nearly 15 years ago. He said its deteriorating condition could create safety risks, especially for children.
He also called for the existing breakwater to be upgraded and extended. A stronger breakwater would help protect fishing boats when they enter or leave the area during rough weather.
Another fisherman, Mohd Amin Mohd Yatim, 55, said the muddy and shallow river mouth could damage boats and engines.
Such damage adds to the financial pressure on fishermen who already struggle to earn a steady income.
Limited Fishing Grounds Affect Earnings
Raduan Bodot, 62, who has worked as a fisherman for more than 50 years, said the reduction in available fishing grounds had also affected traditional fishing activities.
He explained that fishermen had invested heavily in boats, nets and other equipment. However, their earnings are no longer enough to cover those costs.
The fishermen are therefore urging the authorities to address the problems and protect their main source of income.
Melaka Election Candidate Pledges to Raise Fishermen’s Concerns
Meanwhile, Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Serkam state seat, Muhammad Faiq Azman, said the challenges faced by Pantai Siring fishermen would be among his priorities if elected in the 16th Melaka State Election.
He said the concerns of the fishing community must be taken seriously because fishing remains their main source of livelihood.
The Election Commission has set Nov 14 as polling day for the Melaka state election. Early voting will take place on Nov 10.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
