BATU GAJAH: The Perak Sejahtera 2030 Fishing Programme reeled in more than just fish when Datin Seri Aezer Zubin outshines her husband, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, with an impressive catch.
Aezer's 2.46kg catfish earned her third place and a RM1,000 reward, while Saarani, trailing in 10th place, caught a 2.05kg pacu fish and received a modest RM200 prize.
The light-hearted rivalry added a splash of fun to the morning's event at Taman Herba.
Saarani said that he was born in Lenggong, near Tasik Raban, and that fishing has been a part of his life since childhood.
"It's not unusual for me to go fishing," he said briefly when met after the event.
When asked if his wife developed an interest in fishing after marrying him, Saarani said she occasionally accompanied him.
The first prize went to Perak Immigration Department director Meor Hezbullah Meor Abd Malik, who took home a cash prize of RM3,000.
He caught 6.45kg of pacu fish.
Meanwhile, Behrang assemblywoman Salina Samsudin secured second place and received RM2,000. She caught 2.54kg of catfish.
The programme has entered its second year, and in the Open Category, which took place on Oct 5 at the same location, a total of 500 participants took part, including state and federal government staff, as well as members of the public.
In today's VIP Category, 120 participants, including state assembly members, department heads, district officers, and local council presidents, came together to add even more excitement to the event.