Fisheries Department Prepares for Northeast Monsoon
The Fisheries Department is taking proactive steps to ensure the stability of fish supplies throughout the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) period, which is expected to reduce fish landings in East Coast states by 10%.
Early Preparations
According to Datuk Adnan Hussain, the department’s director-general, his team has taken early and proactive steps to ensure the stability of fish supplies throughout the MTL from November to March next year. "Indeed, we cannot deny that there will be reductions, but they will only affect the East Coast, whereas on the West Coast, such as in Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Perak, activities (like fishing) at sea and others can still be carried out as usual," he said.
Compensation Measures
The department expects the shortage of fish supplies in the East Coast to be compensated by fish supplies in the West Coast and through aquaculture activities, including marine fish such as barramundi, grouper, golden pomfret, and also freshwater fish such as catfish, tilapia and patin.
Buffer Stock
Adnan said his team has also made preparations to store frozen fish to face the MTL, and the storage serves as a buffer stock to ensure a sufficient supply of fish throughout the monsoon season. "If we take into consideration the boat numbers then they are more numerous boats on the West Coast, and we expect the production shortfall to be around 10 per cent compared to the East Coast production, and it only involves November to March. Actually, that figure is not significant based on our assumptions and observations. InsyaAllah, it can be compensated by activities on the West Coast and also aquaculture," he said.
Stability of Fish Supplies
Adnan guaranteed sufficient fish supplies throughout the MTL, although there will be a slight increase in retail fish prices. His team is also taking several steps to stabilise it. "Meanwhile, the fish buffer stock is sufficient, and there are other agencies also producing frozen fish stock, so the public need not worry because the supply will remain stable. Moreover, the Fisheries Department has been monitoring and making thorough preparations from the beginning," he said.
Country’s Overall Marine Fish Production
Adnan said the country’s overall marine fish production remains stable at around 1.2 million tonnes each year despite the MTL.
Advice to Fishermen
Adnan advised fishermen of small fishing vessels not to go out to sea if the weather conditions are uncertain throughout the MTL, and to always follow the weather updates from the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). He also advised them to prioritise their safety and monitor weather forecasts before going out to sea, and to take advantage of this Northeast Monsoon period to repair fishing equipment or engage in additional activities to earn income.
Government Support
In terms of assistance, especially for small boat fishermen affected by not being able to go out to sea, the government has provided several support measures, including living allowances to ease their burden.
Conclusion
The Fisheries Department is taking proactive steps to ensure the stability of fish supplies throughout the Northeast Monsoon period. Although there will be a slight decrease in fish supplies in the East Coast states, the department expects the shortage to be compensated by fish supplies in the West Coast and through aquaculture activities. The public can rest assured that the supply will remain stable, and the department is committed to ensuring the well-being of fishermen and the fishing industry.
FAQs
Q: What is the expected decrease in fish supplies in the East Coast states?
A: The Fisheries Department expects a 10 per cent decrease in fish supplies in the East Coast states during the Northeast Monsoon period.
Q: How will the department compensate for the shortage of fish supplies in the East Coast?
A: The department expects the shortage to be compensated by fish supplies in the West Coast and through aquaculture activities.
Q: Will the supply of fish remain stable during the MTL?
A: Yes, the department guarantees sufficient fish supplies throughout the MTL, although there will be a slight increase in retail fish prices.
Q: What advice do you have for fishermen during the MTL?
A: Fishermen are advised to prioritise their safety and monitor weather forecasts before going out to sea, and to take advantage of this Northeast Monsoon period to repair fishing equipment or engage in additional activities to earn income.