SEMATAN: The Department of Fisheries (DOF) organised a nationwide programme involving 24 locations in 13 states and 11 districts yesterday.
Here, the programme was conducted at Pusat Penerangan Hidupan Marin (Marine Life Centre) from 8.30am to 5pm and was attended by the Director of the Sarawak Department of Fisheries, Belayong Nyuak.
This programme aims to give direct services to its target groups, namely fishermen and fish breeders, especially in terms of providing explanations and accurate information regarding source management, administration, aquaculture and bio-security.
According to a statement, DOF strives to continue in its efforts to generate better economy to ensure that fish supplies are guaranteed to fulfil demands and expectations. Judging by the growth rate of 6.1%, the demand for fish would reach 3.02 million metric tonnes by the year 2020.
Hence, the Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) system was implemented to ensure better management of fish source. The DOF also emphasises more target group-friendly programmes through the concept of #myKomunitiPerikanan (#myKP).
“The fishing industry is no stranger to issues such as shortages in fish supplies, fishermen selling their catch outside the country, the transfer of fishes in the middle of the ocean and vessel invasions,” said Belayong.
He added that immediate measures have been taken to overcome said issues, such as the installation of CCTVs (Closed Circuit Televisions) and the usage of Security Passes at fishing ports.
Even though there are some complaints about how the implementation of certain policies has affected the fishermen’s source of income, the DOF stated that it would help its target groups through several other options and alternatives.
