JASIN, 5 November 2026 (The Capital Post) – Fishermen in Pantai Siring, Pulai, Melaka, are facing increasing financial difficulties as a shallow river mouth restricts boat movements and reduces the time available for fishing activities.
The accumulation of silt at the river mouth has forced fishermen to depend heavily on tidal conditions, making it difficult to maintain consistent fishing schedules and secure a stable income.
Local fisherman Rizuan Abu Samah, 43, said boats could only enter or leave the river mouth when water levels were sufficiently high, creating uncertainty over daily fishing operations.
He explained that departure times varied according to the tides, while fishermen returning late risked becoming stranded in shallow waters.
On certain days, fishermen have as little as an hour to fish before returning to shore and waiting for the next suitable tide.
Rizuan also raised concerns over the condition of the local jetty, which was constructed nearly 15 years ago, and called for upgrading works to address deteriorating facilities and safety risks.
He further highlighted the need to extend and improve the existing breakwater to provide better protection for fishing boats, particularly during rough sea conditions.
Another fisherman, Mohd Amin Mohd Yatim, 55, said the muddy and shallow river mouth had increased the risk of damage to fishing vessels and engines, adding to the financial pressures faced by the community.
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Mohd Amin, who has more than 30 years of fishing experience, urged the relevant authorities to address the problem and implement measures to safeguard local fishermen’s livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Raduan Bodot, 62, who has worked as a fisherman for over five decades, said shrinking fishing grounds had further affected traditional fishing activities.
He noted that some fishermen had invested substantial amounts in boats, nets and other equipment but were struggling to recover their costs due to declining fishing opportunities.
Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Serkam state constituency, Muhammad Faiq Azman, said the difficulties faced by Pantai Siring fishermen would be among the issues he intended to address if elected in the 16th Melaka State Election.
He acknowledged the importance of resolving these concerns, particularly as fishing remains the main source of income for many families in the area.
The Election Commission has scheduled polling for 14 November 2026, with early voting set for 10 November – The Capital Post
