MIRI: A total RM19,764,000 has been allocated by the federal government as Fishermen’s Living Allowance (ESH) for the year 2024, benefiting a total of 5,490 fishermen across Sarawak.
This initiative, which began in 2008, aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by fishermen due to the rising cost of living.
A mock cheque presentation was made by Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, during the ‘Ramah Mesra Madani’ programme here on today (Aug 11).
Nationwide, the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) will continue to provide ESH assistance to 38,000 fishermen, with a total allocation of RM136.8 million.
Sarawak’s 5,490 recipients represent a significant portion of this support.
Beyond the ESH, the government is also providing additional forms of assistance to the Sarawak fishing community.
These include the B40 Fishermen’s Capacity Improvement Programme, the Development of Fisheries Facilities, and the Large-Scale Expansion for the Sarawak State Fishermen’s Association Community.
Other projects include the Improvement and Upgrading of Jetty Infrastructure Facilities, the Development of the Sarawak Clustered Fishermen’s Association Economic Project, and the Sarawak State Agrifood Mechanisation and Automation Programme.
The Fishing Diesel and Petrol Subsidy Scheme continued this year with an approved subsidised diesel quota of 70 million litres per month, priced at RM1.65 per litre.
This subsidy will benefit the 5,490 fishermen in Sarawak, easing their operational costs.
The B40 Fishery Capacity Improvement Programme has received an allocation of RM3 million, aimed at increasing the income and improving the standard of living for B40 category fishermen.
In Sarawak, RM450,000 has been distributed across 18 Regional Fishermen’s Associations (PNK), benefiting approximately 38 recipients.
Additionally, RM230,000 has been allocated for the Sarawak Fisherman’s Association Community Jetty Expansion Project.
This initiative aims to replace old jetties affected by monsoon seasons, thus ensuring safer and more efficient fishing activities.
Also, RM400,000 has been set aside for the Improvement Project at Kampung Pusa Jetty, which will enhance local fishermen’s landing activities and support the PNK fish marketing project.
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to improving the livelihood and operational efficiency of the state’s fishermen.
