KOTA KINABALU: The state has ordered the Fisheries Department to investigate claims that whales and sharks are being killed and processed at Mabul Island – which is next to the world-renowned diving paradise Sipidan Island.
That is the question state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjum wants answered quickly.
He is asking the state Fisheries Department and the Semporna district office to check out the alleged activities which he said would tarnish the state’s tourism industry.
Masidi said yesterday that Pulau Mabul, which also housed a number of resorts catering to tourists heading to Pulau Sipadan, was not within the jurisdiction of the Sabah Parks, an agency under his ministry.
“Nature lovers and global conservation community are fast becoming very influential lobbyists whose actions could hurt the state’s tourism industry in the long run if they decide a boycott Sabah to protest against activities perceived to be cruel to whales and sharks.”
He said: “Any small mistake or perceived inaction could have a major repercussion on the tourism industry.”
Masidi also called for more coordination among the various law enforcement agencies to curb illegal activities in Sabah waters such as fish bombing.
This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 1 February 2009
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