KUCHING: A total of RM3.7 million has been channelled to the Satang Biru Area Fishermen’s Association (PNK) to upgrade the infrastructure of its Shrimp Pond Farming Project.
Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) Chairman, Muhammad Faiz Fadzil, revealed that previously, LKIM had also incurred high costs to develop ports at Tanjung Bako and Tanjung Manis.
“We know that Sarawak has strong potential to become a fisheries hub in Malaysia, supported by the presence of two well-equipped ports.
“Therefore, we continue our efforts to assist fishermen through such allocations to redevelop infrastructure in phases,” he said.
He said this when officiating the Majlis Rahmah Mesra Madani Bersama Nelayan PNK Satang Biru at Esplanade Telaga Air at the Telaga Air Esplanade here today.
He also expressed confidence that with such assistance, fishermen would be able to improve their productivity and standard of living.
“As such, we encourage fishermen to diversify their economic projects in line with the establishment of this association, which aims to advance the economic and social interests of its members,” he said.
Additionally, the event also saw the presentation of a mock cheque for the Fishermen’s Cost of Living Allowance (ESHN) to PNK Satang Biru for 2026 amounting to RM288,000.
The mock cheques were handed over under the Income Enhancement Incentive Programme/Fishing Equipment Assistance involving 52 recipients, in the form of fishing equipment aid.
The assistance comprised two recipients receiving 15-horsepower Yamaha engines, while another 50 recipients received fishing nets and insulated fish boxes worth RM50,000.
LKIM also distributed 30 sacks of rice contributed by the Sarawak Fishermen’s Association (PENESA) and 20 sacks of rice from PNK Satang Biru.
In a statement, LKIM reaffirmed its commitment to continue implementing such programmes to ensure fishermen fully benefit and contribute to the growth of the national fisheries sector.
