Manama: Mohammed Yousif Al Asam, Director General of Marine Resources at the Supreme Council for the Environment (SCE), emphasised Bahrain's continued efforts to preserve marine resources to ensure sustainability, protect natural assets, and support food security. He noted that safeguarding fisheries is a priority for His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, supported by the continuous follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Asam commended the directives of His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King, Chairman of the SCE, for establishing measures to protect marine resources. He highlighted Edict (3) of 2025, issued by HH Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad, which prohibits the fishing, sale, or trade of 18 species of juvenile fish, crustaceans, and marine life as outlined in the updated length table. The decision applies to fresh, chilled, frozen, salted, canned, or smoked forms. Fishermen who catch these species must release them back into the sea, ensuring their safety.
Al Asam stated that the SCE continues to collaborate with various ministries and government entities to protect Bahrain's fisheries and marine resources for future generations. Plans and programmes are being developed to enhance sustainability, alongside drafting laws and regulations to conserve, develop, and monitor fish stocks, recognising them as a vital national resource and a pillar of food security.
He also commended the significant role played by those working in the fishing sector in protecting marine resources. Their expertise and suggestions contribute to national efforts to safeguard fish stocks.
Al Asam emphasised the importance of community cooperation in implementing the decision, noting that regulating fishing is a national responsibility that benefits the entire society.