MUKAH: After the rain comes the rainbow, and likewise, after the monsoon season, there will be an abundance of seafood for everyone.
After several weeks of facing the monsoon season, it had undoubtedly affected the income of fishermen and fish traders alike.
Not only that, but throughout the heavy rainy season, the people of Mukah had been yearning for fresh seafood.
Now, there is no longer an issue in obtaining fresh seafood, especially fish and red prawns, known locally as ‘payak’.
According to a survey by Suara Sarawak yesterday morning, people had already begun visiting Mukah Wet Market to purchase ‘payak’ and various other types of fish.
Previously, the price of one kilogramme of ‘payak’ ranged between RM15 and RM20, but yesterday, three kilogrammes were sold for RM20.
Many took advantage of the opportunity to buy ‘payak’ at a lower price, with some purchasing up to 20 kilogrammes, particularly those who had travelled from outside Mukah.



According to one of the fishermen, Saranizam Enoh, this is their chance to regain income after having to rest during the monsoon season.
“Alhamdulillah, this is a blessing for all of us. It is not only a blessing for fishermen but also for everyone who comes to buy.
“It is now the season for ‘payak’ and fish. In Mukah, there are also ‘bubuk’ (small shrimp), but they are not yet abundant as their season has not arrived.
“Currently, we can see ‘payak’ on most traders’ tables here because it is in season,” he told Suara Sarawak.

He further explained that they could catch tens of kilogrammes of ‘payak’ in a single day, and all of it sells quickly, especially since it is now the month of Ramadan.
Apart from ‘payak’, Saranizam mentioned that ‘lumek’ fish is also plentiful at the moment.
“Previously, the prices of ‘lumek’ and ‘payak’ were quite high due to market rates, but now, they are being sold at more affordable prices,” he added.

Meanwhile, fish trader, Lee Kuhi, said that the ,payak, and fish season benefits both fishermen and traders.
“When the seafood supply is plentiful, we, as traders, are also pleased because we can sell fresh produce to the public.
“Not only that, but with the abundant seafood, we can offer lower prices while still adhering to market rates.
“Since the seafood sold here is fresh, it attracts not only locals from Mukah, but also buyers from Bintulu, Miri, and beyond,” he said.
Lee, who sells various types of fish at Mukah Wet Market, also admitted that the market area has been quite crowded, especially during weekends.

Meanwhile, a visitor, Zainon Kipli, expressed gratitude upon seeing Mukah Wet Market filled with seafood.
“Alhamdulillah, this is a blessing after the monsoon season, particularly for the fishermen who go out to sea to bring these catches to us.
“We know that it is currently ‘payak’ and fish season, but as buyers, we must also put ourselves in the fishermen’s shoes and understand how difficult it is to obtain fresh seafood.
“This is because many people ask to buy at lower prices than the current market rate,” she said.
Additionally, Zainon shared that she buys approximately six kilogrammes of ‘payak’ daily for making fritters, grilling, and other dishes.
She also hopes that the ‘payak’ and fish season will continue until Hari Raya Aidilfitri to help increase the income of fishermen.

Meanwhile, Nordiah Ahmad mentioned that with the abundance of ‘payak’, she no longer worries about purchasing it in large quantities daily.
“In a week, I buy only three kilogrammes. However, if I run out, I will repurchase because ‘payak’ is always available at the wet market.
“This is because, in Mukah, it is now ‘payak’ and prawn season. Anytime, we can get it,” she said.
She also hopes that the shrimp and fish season continues to help fishermen recover their income after being affected by the monsoon season.
‘Payak’ season brings abundant seafood, good income to Mukah fishermen and traders