LKIM studies best method to assist C2 zone deep-sea fishermen nationwide as diesel price surge impacts operations
CHUKAI: The government is reviewing the best method to channel aid to owners of deep-sea fishing boats in the C2 zone nationwide. This follows a rise in diesel prices due to the crisis in West Asia.
Lembaga Kemajuan Ikan Malaysia (LKIM) chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil said this group is among the most affected. They do not benefit from the Subsidised Diesel Control Scheme like fishermen in Zones A, B, and C, who receive a subsidy of RM1.65 per litre.
He stated the fuel price hike has increased the cost of fishing operations. This has put pressure on the concerned fishermen.
“Fishermen in Zone C2 indeed have to buy diesel at the industrial price of RM5.52 per litre. They have made an appeal, and we are looking at the best method for us to help these fishermen,” he said. He spoke after officiating the Rahmah Mesra Madani with Kemasik Fishermen event in Kertih near here.
At the event, 31 fishermen from the Kemasik Area Fishermen Association received aid. This included outboard engines, nets, 100-litre insulated containers, and safety jackets.
Muhammad Faiz said there are currently 733 C2 zone fishing boats operating nationwide. This involves 9,598 fishermen, with an annual fish landing volume of 168,511.8 metric tonnes.
He provided figures for other zones. There are 41,282 boats in Zone A, 4,161 in Zone B, and 2,997 in Zone C.
In a separate development, he said national fish landings have not been affected. This is despite several states experiencing the current hot weather phenomenon.
“On average, the total fish landing volume across the country is 707,009.83 metric tonnes per year,” he said.
