Recently, three Malaysian men were sentenced to jail in Singapore for illegally importing corals into the country. Illegal importation of corals and aquarium fish is more than just a regulatory breach—it constitutes wildlife trafficking. This unethical trade undermines international treaties and national laws, jeopardizes ecosystems, threatens vulnerable species, and damages the reputation of our industry.
Legitimate operators within the aquarium trade invest significant effort to ensure that their practices are sustainable and lawful. However, illegal activities like these undermine the work of responsible operators who prioritize ethical and sustainable sourcing. Such actions not only endanger delicate ecosystems but also cast a shadow over the entire aquarium industry.
Industry has a responsibility to protect biodiversity and maintain the credibility of legitimate businesses, and our collective focus must remain on ethical, sustainable practices. Fringe operators that act illegally have no place in our industry.
For more information click the link below:
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/five-months-jail-for-three-men-who-imported-corals-without-permits-from-malaysia