KUANTAN: The Pahang government plans to make the Pahang International Green Eye Squid Hunting Competition an annual event, following the success of its inaugural edition.
State Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said the competition, which attracted 105 anglers from across the country, including Sabah and Sarawak, also drew four participants from Japan.
"History was created in Pahang with the hosting of the international squid jigging competition at Shahbandar Jetty here. We aim to establish the Pahang International Green Eye Squid Hunting Competition as an iconic annual event on the state's tourism calendar, while putting Kuantan on the international maritime tourism map," she said in a statement.
She added that besides promoting squid jigging as a recreational and tourism activity, the competition also creates economic opportunities for the local community, including fishermen, boat operators, small traders, and tourism service providers.
The two-day event, held last month, was organised by the Darul Makmur Fishing and Recreation Association with support from Tourism Pahang.
Leong said the Green Eye squid is known for its unique challenges and high commercial value. "It is distinguished by its striking, colourful body patterns, making it easily recognisable among other marine species, but remains difficult to catch even for experienced anglers," she said.
The squid hunting competition has the potential to become as popular as the Royal Pahang Billfish International Challenge, the country's premier fishing event held annually in the waters off Kuala Rompin.
Leong said Pahang is renowned for the beauty of its 210km coastline, stretching from Kuantan to Rompin, which makes it a highly promising maritime tourism destination. Rompin is internationally recognised as a prime location for sailfish fishing, attracting anglers from both within the country and abroad.
Source - NST
