KUCHING: Coastal families facing rising fuel costs, unpredictable weather and unstable catch at Kampung Muara Tebas have received some timely help from the government.
The fishing community there received seventy-nine life jackets and economic assistance under the Expansion Delivery and Support Service System (SpeKS), myKomuniti Perikanan (myKP) and the Young Agropreneur Grant (GAM).
Women, Family and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, who handed over the assistance, said the government remains committed to easing the burdens of fisherfolk, who she described as essential to Sarawak’s coastal economy.
“We know the life of a fisherman is not easy, with the unpredictable weather, rising fuel costs and inconsistent catch. The threats of climate change demand extraordinary courage and patience,” she said.
Nancy added that the assistance provided serves a direct purpose in reducing risks at sea.
“A life jacket may look small, but to a fisherman, it is a shield at sea. It is our way of minimising risks and ensuring they return safely to their families,” she said when officiating at the handover event at the village community hall.
She said that the efforts complement Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), which prioritises marine sustainability.
“Our fishermen are the guardians of our marine treasures. When they are equipped with safety tools, knowledge and economic support, the future of Sarawak’s fisheries becomes more secure,” she said.
Nancy also acknowledged the crucial role of women in supporting household income through seafood processing and small enterprises.
“Women here do more than manage households. They process seafood, run small businesses and help sustain family income,” she added.
She expressed confidence that the combined efforts of the government and local community would strengthen Muara Tebas as a model for sustainable fisheries.
“With our fishermen’s determination and our shared spirit, I am confident Muara Tebas will continue to prosper,” she said.
