Latest news with #UMT
The Sun
4 hours ago
- Science
- The Sun
Sharks vulnerable to overfishing
PETALING JAYA: Sharks caught in Malaysian waters are mostly by-catch and not the main target of fishermen, according to the Southeast Asian Marine Resources Institute. It said those landed were solely for domestic consumption and not sold or exported abroad. 'A total of 5,610 tonnes of sharks were landed in 2024, a slight decrease from 5,737 the previous year. 'None of the five shark species – the Great Hammerhead, Smooth Hammerhead, a Hammerhead sub-species, Oceanic Whitetip and the Whale Shark (pic) – listed under the Fisheries (Control of Endangered Species of Fish) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 have been landed, as fishermen are now more aware of the prohibitions in place.' The institute also said most of the shark species landed were those commonly found in Malaysian waters, and the Fisheries Department remains highly proactive in ensuring that shark catches are carried out sustainably, without causing a significant decline in population. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) Faculty of Fisheries and Food Science deputy dean (Academic and Student Affairs) Assoc Prof Dr Rumeaida Mat Piah said sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine park ecosystems. She added that a decline of shark populations could have serious negative impacts on coral reef ecosystems and marine biodiversity at marine parks. 'As apex predators, their absence could trigger a cascade of effects, such as imbalances in prey population, alterations in habitat structure and a reduction in overall biodiversity. 'Based on current data, it is hard to say if landing over 5,000 tonnes of sharks is a cause for concern, as there is no set limit for what is considered too much. 'The drop could mean fewer sharks in the sea or simply less fishing activities targeting them. 'Further research is needed to estimate the maximum sustainable yield or precautionary threshold for shark landings to serve as a benchmark for sustainable management.' Rumeaida highlighted that Malaysia has taken steps to protect shark populations, including supporting the Food and Agriculture Organisation International Plan of Action for Sharks and developing two national shark conservation plans in 2006 and 2014. She stressed that shark management requires a mix of strategies, such as international cooperation, sustainable fishing, protecting habitats and addressing threats to vulnerable species. 'Malaysia already bans the exploitation of endangered shark species under the Fisheries Act. Marine parks protect key habitats, harmful (fishing methods) such as pukat pari are banned, and artificial reefs help support shark breeding. 'More can be done, such as introducing catch quotas, minimum size limits and better fishing methods to avoid unintentional shark catches. For this, more detailed and widespread biological data is needed.' Rumeaida said UMT has been working closely with the department and WWF-Malaysia since 2022 on a study titled 'Understanding the Fisheries, Biological and Socio-Economic Aspects of Threatened Sharks and Rays' in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, of which she is project leader. 'Through this research, we have collected valuable biological data, including age, growth, reproductive status and genetic structures, identified key hotspot areas and proposed practical mitigation measures based on socio-economic risks and feasibility assessments. 'With the ongoing efforts and strong commitment of the department and WWF-Malaysia, shark populations in Malaysian waters can be sustained, but further steps such as stronger enforcement, catch limits, improved fishing methods selectivity and more population studies are needed to support future species-specific management plans.' She also said a common misconception is the small number of sharks seen at markets or landing ports has little impact. 'But unlike bony fish, sharks grow slowly, mature late, have long gestation periods, produce very few offspring and may not reproduce every year. These traits make them highly vulnerable to overfishing and slow to recover once their numbers decline.' She added that addressing overfishing and illegal shark harvesting in ecologically sensitive areas requires a comprehensive approach that includes stricter regulations, enhanced enforcement, community involvement, the promotion of sustainable fishing practices and increased investment in research and monitoring efforts.
The Sun
3 days ago
- General
- The Sun
Nestle annual coastal clean-up in Terengganu
MALAYSIA's east coast is known for its coral reefs and rich fishing grounds that sustain both biodiversity and the livelihoods of local fishing communities. But in recent years, growing plastic waste has posed increasing challenges to these fragile ecosystems, says Nestle Malaysia. From discarded packaging to ghost nets abandoned at sea, marine debris is putting pressure on traditional fishing areas relied on by generations of local families. 'Alarmingly, Malaysia is claimed to be among the top 10 countries globally for microplastic ingestion. A 2024 study published in the Environmental Science and Technology journal found that Malaysians consume an average of 502.3mg of microplastics daily, with more than half coming from seafood. For fishing communities, more than an environmental issue, this is a matter of long-term survival.' In response to this urgent challenge, Nestle Malaysia brought its annual Coastal and Underwater Clean-Up to Terengganu recently with a renewed mission. For the first time, the initiative brought together not only employee volunteers from Nestle's Sayang Komuniti programme, but also marine researchers from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), representatives from the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) and villagers from the Pantai Tok Jembal fishing community. This effort saw more than 350 volunteers carry out a range of activities at two locations. At Pantai Tok Jembal, teams worked side-by-side with villagers to clear plastic waste along the coast, remove barnacles from fishing boats, repair fishing huts and distribute basic provisions to the local community. The programme continued at Pulau Bidong, which saw Nestle volunteers and UMT's 'Ocean Heroes' with the support of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency conduct an underwater cleanup targeting ghost nets, which pose a serious threat to coral reefs and marine life. Nestle Malaysia CEO Juan Aranols said: 'At Nestle, our Creating Shared Value approach drives us to create lasting benefits for both people and the planet. Our ambition to achieve plastic neutrality compels us to work hand-in-hand with local stakeholders to remove plastic waste from the environment and embed sustainable practices across our value chain. 'This collaboration in Terengganu with our partners and the community of Pantai Tok Jembal, reflects our deep commitment to protecting natural ecosystems while supporting those whose livelihoods depend on them. With microplastics increasingly threatening our food systems, initiatives like this are not only vital for environmental health but also for strengthening Malaysia's food security, food safety and the long-term resilience of our coastal communities.' UMT's Microplastic Research Interest Group researcher Professor Madya Dr Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim said: 'Removing ghost nets is crucial, as they break down into microplastics that harm coral reefs, marine life and ultimately human health through the food chain. Many cleanups focus only on beaches, but this collaboration with Nestle sets a new benchmark by tackling underwater pollution. 'Through waste audits, we gather vital data to trace pollution sources and better understand how even small acts of mismanaged plastic can lead to wider harm. This also connects academic research with real-world impact, showcasing how industry-academia partnerships can lead the way in long-term environmental stewardship.' A Pantai Tok Jembal fisherman, Rahmat Zamri, said: 'Plastic pollution and ghost nets have really affected our fishing activities and our catch has been decreasing. The beach has changed too; it used to be very clean. We welcome the visitors and local businesses, but the rubbish left behind is a growing concern. We do our best to keep the area clean, but it's not easy. 'That's why I'm truly grateful for this cleanup programme. It helps protect our environment and our livelihoods. When a company like Nestle works with us, I hope it inspires more positive change and reminds people to treat the ocean with more respect.' Nestle Malaysia stated that as plastic pollution continues to threaten ocean health and human well-being, initiatives such as this showcase that bringing about real change requires collective responsibility. 'Whether removing ghost nets, clearing plastic waste or raising awareness, each action contributes to a cleaner, safer future. 'While Terengganu was a focal point this year, similar coastal cleanup efforts were also carried out by Nestle at locations in Selangor, Perak and Sabah, bringing together over 500 volunteers nationwide. The initiative successfully removed a total of almost 1.7 tonnes of marine waste, a clear reflection of what can be achieved when companies and communities work together.' Volunteers from Nestle Malaysia and UMT clean barnacles off fishing boats at Pantai Tok Jembal to help improve safety and efficiency, as part of Nestle's 2025 coastal cleanup.
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Experts laud move to establish dedicated maritime court
KUALA LUMPUR: The soon-to-be-tabled Admiralty Bill, which seeks to establish a dedicated maritime court, is a timely and necessary step, say maritime law experts. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) maritime policy expert Professor Datuk Dr Saharuddin Abdul Hamid said the initiative marks a significant progression from the current Admiralty Court framework, which operates under the High Court in Kuala Lumpur. "An Admiralty Court is a specialised court to deal with maritime disputes. As Malaysia continues to grow as a strategic maritime nation, the need for a robust legal infrastructure tailored to these issues cannot be overstated," he told the New Straits Times. While the existing Admiralty Court is functional, he said it lacks the depth of specialisation required to effectively resolve the growing number of maritime disputes. "A dedicated maritime court would allow for the appointment of judges and legal personnel with deep expertise in international maritime law. This level of specialisation will ensure more consistent and informed rulings. This brings Malaysia closer in line with global maritime legal hubs such as Singapore and the United Kingdom," he said. He said time is often critical in cases involving vessel arrests, cargo damage, charter party disputes and pollution claims. A court focused solely on maritime matters, he said, would reduce case backlogs and enhance resolution timelines, reinforcing confidence among both domestic and international stakeholders. UMT senior lecturer Wan Mariam Wan Abdullah said location accessibility was a long-standing issue, as the current court only sits in Kuala Lumpur. "Ports in Klang, Tanjung Pelepas, Penang and Johor are underserved. Regional divisions under a new court would bridge that gap," she said. She added a specialised court would also improve coordination with enforcement agencies and port authorities, particularly for enforcement cases involving ship detentions, pollution breaches and port regulations. She added the move would also position Malaysia as a cost-effective alternative to Singapore for maritime dispute resolution and expand maritime arbitration services to attract international cases. Meanwhile, maritime lawyer Srimurugan Alagan welcomed the concurrent effort to review outdated maritime legislation under the Maritime Law Revision and Reform Committee (MLRRC), chaired by Federal Court judge Tan Sri Nallini Pathmanathan. "Many of Malaysia's maritime laws are based on pre-Merdeka laws, such as the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952, and they were drafted for the applications of that time. It is not keeping up with modern industry developments," he said. He said the committee's review of six core maritime-related laws was a major step forward as Malaysia is positioning itself as a shipping hub. "We're in competition with countries like Singapore, which are far ahead in this regard. So it's important that our maritime laws are updated and competitive," he added. Yesterday, Loke said the Transport Ministry will table an Admiralty Bill. He said the Bill would be presented during the third session of Parliament this year, scheduled between October and December. Loke added that the MLRRC had been given one year to complete its review, which was aimed at harmonising the outdated laws.
Ya Biladi
08-07-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Orange urged to address labor dispute involving Moroccan Teleperformance subsidiary
The National Federation of Postal and Telecommunications Employees (FAPT), affiliated with France's General Confederation of Labor (CGT), has called out French telecom operator Orange over a labor dispute involving the Moroccan subsidiary of Teleperformance and its employees affiliated with the Moroccan Labor Union (UMT). In a letter reviewed by Yabiladi, the union denounces the wrongful dismissal of three workers. According to the letter, the employees were accused of «entering a production floor on February 18, 2025, where more than 250 staff members work on behalf of Orange France, the contracting client». The FAPT addressed Orange directly, emphasizing its responsibility as the principal contractor and the need to uphold fundamental rights throughout its value chain, including those of its partner companies. The National Federation of Call Centers and Offshoring Professions (FNCAMO – UMT) in Morocco confirmed that «these dismissals are neither legally justified under national law nor under international labor standards». In this context, FAPT has called on Orange to intervene with Teleperformance Morocco to reverse the dismissals and ensure respect for workers' rights. The union is demanding the «immediate reinstatement» of the employees, along with full restoration of their rights and the cancellation of any disciplinary measures. As of now, Orange has not issued a response.
Ya Biladi
07-07-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Orange urged to address labor dispute involving Moroccan Teleperformance subsidiary
The National Federation of Postal and Telecommunications Employees (FAPT), affiliated with France's General Confederation of Labor (CGT), has called out French telecom operator Orange over a labor dispute involving the Moroccan subsidiary of Teleperformance and its employees affiliated with the Moroccan Labor Union (UMT). In a letter reviewed by Yabiladi, the union denounces the wrongful dismissal of three workers. According to the letter, the employees were accused of «entering a production floor on February 18, 2025, where more than 250 staff members work on behalf of Orange France, the contracting client». The FAPT addressed Orange directly, emphasizing its responsibility as the principal contractor and the need to uphold fundamental rights throughout its value chain, including those of its partner companies. The National Federation of Call Centers and Offshoring Professions (FNCAMO – UMT) in Morocco confirmed that «these dismissals are neither legally justified under national law nor under international labor standards». In this context, FAPT has called on Orange to intervene with Teleperformance Morocco to reverse the dismissals and ensure respect for workers' rights. The union is demanding the «immediate reinstatement» of the employees, along with full restoration of their rights and the cancellation of any disciplinary measures. As of now, Orange has not issued a response.
