Malaysia: Man Fined RM30,000 for Smuggling Over 7,500 Dried Seahorses into Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, January 6 – A man has been fined RM30,000 after pleading guilty to illegally importing 7,529 dried seahorses from China without proper documentation. The seizure, valued at RM38,000, underscores Malaysia’s commitment to curbing the illegal trade of protected marine species.

Incident Details

• The accused was intercepted at KLIA Terminal 1 on November 30, 2023, upon arriving from China.
• Malaysia’s Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) officers found 20.374kg of dried seahorses in his luggage, without a valid import permit.
• The case was handed over to the Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) for further action.

Legal Action and Penalty

The man was charged under Section 10(a) of the 2008 International Trade in Endangered Species Act, which regulates the trade of protected aquatic species.

• Punishment:
  • Fine: RM30,000
  • Alternative Sentence: 6 months' imprisonment if unable to pay
  • Seizure: All confiscated items were ordered to be forfeited

Seized Species and Protection Laws

According to a DOF statement, the dried seahorses included species from:

• Hippocampus (seahorse family)
• Corythoichthys (razor fish)
• Syngnathoides (pipefish)

These species are protected under the 2008 International Trade in Endangered Species Act, meaning any import or trade requires proper permits.

Authorities' Warning Against Illegal Wildlife Trade

Following this conviction, authorities reaffirmed their zero-tolerance stance on illegal marine species trade:

• "We urge the public to comply with existing laws to ensure biodiversity conservation," said the DOF.
• MAQIS pledged to intensify enforcement and monitoring to eliminate illegal trade in endangered marine species.