Workers burying the dead tilapia at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreational park in Ipoh.
Some 200 tilapia fish have been found dead in the pond at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreational Park (Polo Ground) in Ipoh, Perak.
Ipoh mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin said the dead fish were first found on May 30 and the carcasses were cleared away by Ipoh City Council (MBI) workers on June 1.
“Initially a few died and then more were found floating in the pond.
“Only the tilapia were affected. We have yet to determine the cause,” he said.
“We have referred the matter to the Kinta District Fisheries Department to identify the cause and advise us on the next course of action,” said Rumaizi.
He said the dead fish had been buried and there were no plans to replace them.
Retired civil servant S. Param, 68, who jogs regularly in the park, said the dead fish had left a foul stench for a few days.
It only got better about two to three days ago, said Param.
“It is strange that only the tilapia have been affected while the ornamental fish and tortoises have not.
“A pump should be installed at the pond to provide proper aeration for the aquatic life.
“The water should also be tested once a month or every two months to ensure that there is no pollution,” he added.
Param said the city council should set up a management committee that involved the public for all the city’s public parks.
“With such a committee, we can provide feedback and lodge complaints to the city council.
“The committee can act as a bridge between the public and the authorities,” he said.
