The man who earned the trust of Sungai Koh’s wild mahseer

Azman Mustapha, a 53-year-old resident, has spent nearly a decade feeding wild mahseer in Sungai Koh river, gradually earning their trust. Initially, the fish would flee upon his approach due to their sensitivity to human presence. However, by consistently feeding them at the same time each day, Azman successfully formed a bond with the mahseer, now estimating hundreds of thousands of them inhabit the stretch of river.

The fish have become accustomed to human presence, and visitors can observe them gathering near the riverbank during feeding times. This unique interaction has become a major draw for eco-tourists visiting FMC Kelah Eco Park, a conservation-focused attraction established in 2023 by Azman. The park aims to protect the river's ecosystem rather than exploit it, as mahseer are highly valued as food fish but should remain undisturbed.

Azman emphasizes the importance of preserving the river's health, as mahseer require clean, oxygen-rich water to survive. Protecting the surrounding forest is equally crucial, as unchecked development could harm the ecosystem. The project has also sparked interest in nature-based tourism, which can support the surrounding community through various industries.

However, Azman warns that any expansion must not compromise the river's well-being, as the disappearance of the fish would lead to the loss of the park's foundations.