KOTA KINABALU: A group of local fishermen received a surprise visit from a lone whale shark after it made an appearance at a 'bagang' or traditional fishing structure made of bamboo in waters off Bongawan, about 70km from here, recently.
Presence of the protected slow-moving and filter-feeding shark was documented on videos, which also showed fishermen happily feeding it with bucket of tiny fish.
In one of the footages, a fisherman said they were lucky to get a visit from the whale shark and expressed sincere hope for such natural wonder to remain healthy.
The fisherman also jokingly said they were giant fish tamers, with another fisherman seen stroking the whale shark.
Ara Dinawan Research Education Conservation Centre director (Education Conservation and Community) Monica Chin, however, raised concern over the fish feeding practice, stressing whale sharks, being a filter feeder, do not simply feed on normal fish.
While the fishermen on videos were only showing friendly gesture to the whale shark, she said there was a need to continue to provide necessary marine conservation education to the fishing or maritime community.
"The fishing community lack marine conservation knowledge. I managed to communicate with the person who posted the videos on Facebook. It took me three hours to explain the basic knowledge about whale shark and why we should not feed them.
"(Whale sharks) must search for their food in the open ocean. I highlighted that the whale shark was a protected marine animal and they are endangered species. I encourage the fisherman to protect them, not to harm them, and also to preserve the sea surrounding them.
"I also urged him to encourage his friends and the community. I'm glad he understood and agreed," said Chin, who is also speaker for Asia Dive Expo.
She stressed everyone must play their part in practicing sustainability to protect and conserve the ocean health for future generations and the many industries.
Chin also said she planned to visit the fishing community in Bongawan to present a short ocean awareness talk after the movement control order was lifted.
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