10,000 siakap released into Likas Bay
Published on: Sunday, June 30, 2024
By: Cynthia D Baga
Jeffrey (second right) releasing fry into the sea off Kota Kinabalu waters.
Kota Kinabalu: A total of 10,000 siakap (barramundi) fry were released into the Likas Lagoon, here, Saturday.
The annual programme since 2022 is a government initiative in the conservation of coastal fishery resources.
ADVERTISEMENT
State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the State Government has allocated RM400,000 for the fish fry release programme this year, aimed at increasing fish stocks in coastal waters off Sabah.
“The programme is critical in supporting both the ecosystem and the local economy.
“This significant investment is part of broader efforts within the 12th Malaysia Plan and the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Initiative to ensure sustainable fisheries resources in the State,” he said at the launch of the programme.
“The RM400,000 allocation for this year’s fish fry release programme underscores our commitment to increasing fish stocks, particularly in coastal and riverine waters.
ADVERTISEMENT
“This initiative is vital not only for ensuring a steady supply of protein for the people of Sabah but also for bolstering the State’s gross domestic product through a thriving fisheries sector,” he said.
Jeffrey, who is State Deputy Chief Minister, said the programme could enhance fisheries resources and conserve ecosystems by providing affordable protein sources.
ADVERTISEMENT
The programme, he said, would also benefit rural, island and inland communities, thus improving their socio-economic status.
This year’s programme will see the release of 30,000 barramundi fry, 10,000 sea cucumber fry, 2,000kg of cockle fry and one million tiger prawn fry across 11 coastal districts.
Jeffrey also said there would be the inclusion of freshwater species in the programme, with a target to release 50,000 freshwater fish fry of various species across identified riverine areas in Sabah this year.
Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
Daily Express Malaysia
.jpg)
.jpg)
