These Are the Characteristics of Siomay Made from Sailfin Catfish and the Dangers If Consumed

The Jakarta Provincial Government (Pemprov DKI Jakarta) carried out a mass capture of sailfin catfish in five areas on Friday (17/4/2026). In one day, more than one tonne of fish was successfully hunted from rivers and waterways in five Jakarta regions. This measure was taken because the sailfin catfish population is considered out of control and threatens the aquatic ecosystem. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung revealed that, based on an assessment by the Food Security, Maritime Affairs, and Agriculture Agency (DKPKP), sailfin catfish now dominate more than 60 per cent of the fish population in Jakarta’s waters. This condition is deemed concerning due to its invasive nature. Moreover, sailfin catfish are said to pose a potential danger to humans if consumed. According to a report from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), the residue content in the fish’s body averages above the safe threshold, namely more than 0.3. In connection with this, field findings by Kompas.com show that there are still rogue food vendors using sailfin catfish meat as raw material, one of which is in siomay. The vendor, Mamat (not his real name) (51), explained that siomay made from sailfin catfish has several differences that can be recognised compared to siomay from generally consumable fish. According to him, the most striking difference is seen in the colour of the dough. “If using sailfin catfish meat, the colour is indeed a bit darker, similar to meatballs. It’s different from siomay made from fresh fish, which is usually a bit pink,” said Mamat when met by Kompas.com on Thursday (22/1/2026). Besides colour, aroma is also a strong indicator. According to Mamat, sailfin catfish meat has a sharper fishy smell compared to consumable fish like mackerel or milkfish. “It’s usually more fishy, but that can be masked with lime,” he said. In terms of taste, the difference is not always striking, especially when mixed with spices. However, the basic character of sailfin catfish can still be felt, especially if used in dominant quantities.