Endangered Irrawaddy Dolphin Found Dead in Illegal Fishing Net off Kuala Kedah

A regular maritime patrol by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) found the body of an endangered Irrawaddy dolphin caught in an illegal net about 1.1 nautical miles from the Kuala Kedah estuary.

Noor Azreyanti Ishak, Director of Maritime Affairs at MMEA Kuala Kedah, said that her team found the dolphin, which is called “empesut” in the area, around 11 a.m. The sailors, likely trying to catch rays, quickly removed the net, estimated to be worth RM2,000.

There are only a few Irrawaddy dolphins left in Southeast Asia, and the loss of even one of them would have a big impact on the marine environment, according to Noor Azreyanti. “The Fisheries Act of 1985 says that this kind of round net can’t be used because it catches rays, young fish, and protected species like the Irrawaddy dolphin without discrimination.”

The incident is the sixth time this year that the Kuala Kedah unit has been able to successfully seize illegal fishing gear. This shows that the MMEA is stepping up its efforts to stop harmful fishing practices. Noor Azreyanti said that using these nets indefinitely puts at risk not only ray species but also other sea creatures that depend on the same food chain.

The MMEA has urged everyone involved in fishing and sea activities to remain vigilant, report any unusual activities, and adhere strictly to all fisheries regulations to safeguard Malaysia’s marine wildlife.

We are conducting further research to trace the origin of the net and hold those responsible accountable. The MMEA will keep you informed as it takes legal action and continues its operations to stop hunting along the coast of Kedah.