FOR the fisheries sector which is the second biggest contributor to GDP under the agriculture sector for the year 2022, Masidi said a total of RM41.61 million is allocated to continue development programmes and support that guarantees the production of fisheries products for domestic and international markets.
Of that amount, he said a total of RM10.43 million has been allocated under development to finance among others conservation initiatives through the tagal activities and installation of artificial reef.
“The balance of trade in the fisheries sector shows a positive figure of approximately RM600 million to RM900 million annually,” he said.
In addition, he said efforts to combat Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing especially the issue of fish bombing will be enhanced. As a result, this year, a total of 49 cases, including four court cases, have been successfully recorded by the Sabah Fisheries Department.
Masidi said the State Government aims to explore the Blue Economy with the goal of economic development, creating job opportunities and improving the people’s standard of living.
He explained the concept of the Blue Economy involves sustainable exploration of marine and coastal resources.
“For instance, mangrove conservation, fisheries and aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism and recreation, climate change and others. Therefore, the Government will undertake this new exploration in collaboration with foreign investors who have expertise in these fields. To realise this aspiration, the State Government will host an International Blue Economy Conference in February 2024,” he said.
Ko-Nelayan has been allocated RM15.99 million to continue the implementation of programmes and development projects that will benefit the fishermen community, small and medium entrepreneurs as well as the development of fisheries and aquaculture industry.
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