EIGHTEEN carp, weighing from 1.5kg to 2kg, were released into the Putrajaya lake in anticipation of a fishing competition on Feb 9.

The Putrajaya Fishing Competition 2019 will be held in conjunction with Federal Territory Day celebrations, along the lakeside in Presint 1 and Taman Wawasan, Presint 2, from 8am until noon.

Putrajaya Corporation (PPj) president Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim, who released the fish, gave his assurance that it would be a “catch-and-release” competition to maintain and preserve the ecology of the lake and its fish population.

“The top 50 contestants stand a chance of winning prizes in cash and hampers with a total value of RM18,900.

“There are also 40 lucky draw prizes up for grabs, among them fishing gear, a 60” LED TV and four units of 40” LED TVs, with a total value of RM15,000,” he said.

Also present was PPj vice president Datuk Omairi Hashim.

Online applications for the competition have been closed but those interested can register at the counter on-site from 5pm today (Feb 8).

The counter will be open round-the-clock. The fee is RM20 for every fishing rod.

The first 1,000 contestants will also get a goodie bag courtesy of PPj.

During the event, Aminuddin also said PPj organised periodic dog-catching operations following three complaints on strays from residents.

“There have been no reports of dog attacks.

“There are also efforts to control the population of wild boar that many residents have complained were venturing out of the forested areas,” he said.