KUCHING: The authorities have been urged to engage with fishermen promptly after 200 Sarawak Fishing Vessels Association (SFVA) members halted operations for a week to protest against the mandatory Mobile Tracking Units (MTU) installation policy on fishing vessels.
Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the government’s decision to enforce the installation of MTU for Class C vessels has ignited a strong backlash and dissatisfaction from the fishing community.
“It is utterly insensitive for the Fisheries Department to insist on implementing this policy without first holding a dialogue and reaching a consensus with the fishermen.
“Such a blanket approach undoubtedly puts more financial burden on fishermen, making their lives even harder,” he said in a post on Facebook.
Tiong, who is also Bintulu MP, said such decisions should be made only after engaging affected groups to ensure their needs and realities are taken into account.
He questioned whether the MTU installation, which would cost over RM6,000 with an additional RM2,000 annual fee for maintenance, will benefit the fishermen or simply add to greater hardship.
“In this instance, the mandatory MTU installation clearly does not align with practical realities. Has the department thoroughly studied the operating patterns of Sarawak’s fishing vessels? How frequent are incidents of unintentionally entering foreign waters?
“Instead of directing enforcement measures at our own citizens, shouldn’t the focus be on addressing the pressing issue of foreign fishing vessels deliberately encroaching on our waters?” he asked.He said while the Fisheries Department aims to strictly enforce maritime regulations, it must not neglect its responsibility to safeguard the rights of local fishermen.
“I sincerely hope that the director-general of the Fisheries Department and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, will address this issue and resolve it appropriately to ensure fishermen can continue to make a living,” he said.
Tiong also said as of Jan 2, Class C trawlers without satellite trackers will not have their licences renewed and will be subject to enforcement actions if they go to sea.
“In protest, over 200 Class C trawlers across Sarawak have ceased operations for a week to voice their dissatisfaction with the mandatory MTU installation policy.
“A single move can indeed affect the entire system. With the Chinese New Year approaching, this strike by the fishing industry will impact the supply of fish in the market.
“If the authorities fail to promptly implement a better solution, there will likely be a shortage of supply, forcing the public to pay higher prices for fish. How will the Fisheries Department then answer to the people?” he asked.
