KUCHING: Not all puffer fish end up on the dinner plate, some are admired as decorative aquatic pets in aquariums.
Sarawak Fishermen Association (Penesa) chairman Awangku Tajudin Awangku Ibrahim said this may be due to the risks involved in consuming the fish.
“It is not as commonly consumed as other types of fish.”
“Local fishermen typically release any puffer fish caught in their nets, especially if the fish is already dead, as it holds no value to them,” Awangku Tajudin explained.
He said puffer fish are found worldwide, including in Malaysian waters which is why they do not export it to countries like Japan.
In Japan, the deadly puffer – or fugu – is considered a high-end delicacy. However, only certified chefs with specialised training can prepare the dish to ensure its safety.
“Proper handling of the fish is crucial to avoid any harm to consumers,” he added.
Many aquarium hobbyists find joy in keeping puffer fish, purchasing them at licensed ornamental fish shops.
“Buyers can find puffer fish at authorised retailers, but the sellers must possess the proper permits to sell these toxic creatures,” he said.
Penesa, he said, has taken proactive steps to educate both fishermen and consumers about the hazards of puffer fish consumption.
Apart from using association platforms to reach out to the public, he said sometimes officers from the fisheries department had also been meeting fishermen on this matter.
The Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM Sarawak) earlier said that Malaysia is home to various types of puffer fish (Lagocephalus sp.), which contain nerve toxins (neurotoxins).
Based on the department’s statistics, in 2020, the total amount of puffer fish landed in Malaysia was around 1,337 tonnes.
Perak had the highest landing with 804 tonnes, followed by Sarawak at 228 tonnes and Sabah at 192 tonnes.
The most commonly caught species are from the Lagocephalus species, particularly the banana puffer fish, which includes Lagocephalus wheeleri, Lagocephalus spadiceus and Lagocephalus lunaris.
“The species look the same externally,” it added.
An elderly couple recently passed away in Johor after consuming the fish.
