KIMANIS: Fishermen are encouraged to venture into aquaculture for better returns, said Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.
“When I visited Datuk Yap Yun Fook’s fish farm in Keningau, I learned that an empurau fish is worth about RM1,000.
“Fish farming will help the fishing community earn better income by selling seafood that yields high market value.
“Fishermen no longer have to go to sea; therefore, we can reduce costs on subsidy, boats and engines,” Shafie told the fishing community at Kampung Brunei here, yesterday.
Present were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Christina Liew, and International Trade and Industry Minister cum Parti Warisan Sabah (Warisan) deputy president Datuk Darell Leiking.
Shafie, who is Warisan president, pointed out that he was raised in a fishing community in Semporna, and understands the ordeals faced by fishermen.
Shafie also said that he had discussed with state Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Junz Wong the possibility of using suitable fish seeds for the implementation of fish farming activities.
Kimanis Fishermen Association chairman Shafie Hashim, 63, said they are keen to be involved in aquaculture, with assistance from the state government.
“On average, we are earning between RM600 and RM800 every month, but it depends on the sea and weather conditions.
“During monsoon season, especially in December, we cannot go to the sea at all,” he added.
Another fisherman, Sulaiman Bajali, 80, said so far, none of them has ever tried aquaculture due to financial constraints, and no one has taught them about the methods and business involved.
“Fishing has been my routine for the past 60 years, but I never thought of farming fish in ponds.
“I cannot afford it, because the cost is very high. Furthermore, it requires suitable locations,” he added.
The association of 167 members said it also hopes that the state government would deepen the rivers of Kuala Sungai Bongawan, Sungai Kimanis and Sinar Baru in Mandahan; install solar-powered lights at estuaries; and help replace stolen fishing boat engines.