Gelang Patah, Malaysia – Six years ago, Mohammad Ridhwan Mohd Yazid experienced a terrifying event when his small fishing boat was caught in a sudden storm on his way back to Malaysia’s southern Johor coast. In just minutes, the calm winds turned into gales, throwing him and his catch into the air. Alone and near Singapore’s shoreline, Ridhwan managed to land back on his boat and hastily head for land.
Ridhwan’s story is not unique, as many traditional Malaysian fishermen are facing challenges due to the changing weather patterns caused by the climate crisis. These fishermen, making up about 65 percent of Malaysia’s fishing community, rely on the sea for their livelihoods, catching fish, crabs, and other marine animals along the coast.
However, with erratic weather, warming seas, and declining fish stocks, these fishermen are finding it increasingly difficult to make a living. Winds changing direction unpredictably and dangerous conditions at sea have made fishing a risky endeavor, especially for those who work alone or at night.
The impact of climate change on the oceans is undeniable, with rising temperatures affecting marine life and pushing fish to cooler waters. The consequences of these changes are evident in the declining fish stocks and poor catches experienced by Malaysian fishermen, who depend on the sea for their income.
In response to the challenges they face, some fishermen in the Pendas area have come together to build offshore fishing platforms to increase their income and reduce the risks associated with traditional fishing. These platforms serve as breeding grounds for fish and provide a more stable source of income compared to venturing out to sea.
For Ridhwan, the decision to leave behind his fishing boat and pursue other opportunities was a difficult one, but a necessary one in order to adapt to the changing times. As he reflects on his past in the fishing industry, he acknowledges the need to embrace change and find new ways to make a living in an environment impacted by climate change.