Prepare the cleaned fish by giving each side a slit. Season with salt. Fry in batches, until golden brown. Flip as needed. Once golden, take these out.
In a pan, melt butter then saute garlic until aromatic. Add in red chillies, oyster sauce, pepper, and sugar. Mix well.
Pour in water. Cook until the sauce has slightly reduced. Add back the fried fish. Baste and cook for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley.