KUCHING: Growing demand for Sarawak’s premium fish products in Singapore is creating new opportunities for the state’s aquaculture industry and rural communities.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak’s tilapia from Batang Ai had gained recognition among consumers in Singapore because of its quality and taste.
He said the fish was farmed in the waters of Batang Ai rather than in ponds, resulting in a fresher flavour that distinguished it from other tilapia products in the market.
“I met a minister in Singapore, and he told me, ‘Your tilapia is really good’. He said our fish is very tasty,” he said during the opening of the 12th Sarawak Career and Training (SCaT) Fair 2026 at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre today (June 6).
The Premier also highlighted the growing commercial value of empurau, particularly the white empurau variety, which he said was fetching premium prices among buyers in Singapore.
Abang Johari said he had asked Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) to plant suitable trees in Baleh that could serve as food sources for empurau, as part of efforts to support the fish population and aquaculture activities in the area.
According to him, the initiative could help strengthen aquaculture activities in the area while creating additional economic opportunities for local communities.
Abang Johari said the strong demand for premium fish such as tilapia and empurau demonstrated the export potential of Sarawak’s aquaculture industry and its ability to tap into regional markets.
“This represents another economic opportunity for our people,” he said.
