KUCHING: Fishing net equipment worth about RM50,000 were handed over to the Sungai Apong Kotak Boat Fishermen Association by Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii and Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong.
Kelvin said the equipment were to help alleviate fishermen pertaining to some of the economic impact of high inflation and rising costs.
“In the past two years or so, the raging epidemic has disrupted the livelihood of various industries, including the fishing industry, which also found it difficult to withstand the impact of the epidemic.
“Now on top of that, they face rising cost of equipment and living which has directly impacted their families,” Yii said in his Facebook posting yesterday.
He pointed out that the fishing industry is a laborious and high-risk industry.
“Due to seasonal changes, the recent catches have not been as good as before. Coupled with the impact of the epidemic and soaring prices, fishermen will face some difficulties in their livelihood.
“Therefore, after listening to their concerns and problems, we handed over the allocations to the association to be shared directly with each of the existing kotak boat fisherman under Sungai Apong. This will be used to purchase the necessary fishing nets, accessories and equipment to help them alleviate some of their burdens during this tough time.
“Despite our party’s (Democratic Action Party’s) limited resources, we will do everything in its power to provide assistance to those in need and to stand with the people through this difficult time,” Yii stressed.
