Fishermen in Sandakan have been forced to reduce their trips due to a severe shortage of subsidised diesel meant to support their livelihoods since July.
The Sandakan Fishing (Tongkang) Association said fishermen had drastically cut their trips from four times a month to just once, and feared it could affect seafood supplies in the district.
Association chairman Ng Chi Tshung alleged irregularities in the distribution of the subsidised fuel and wants the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) to investigate the cause of the shortage.
“The government provides 2.8 million litres of subsidised diesel each month, sold at RM1.68 per litre, compared to the market price of RM2.15 per litre.
“This supply has traditionally been sufficient for the 426 fishing vessels operating across four jetties in the area,” Ng said in a statement.
Three of the jetties are located in Bandar Ramai-Ramai in Karamunting, and one in Batu Putih Mile 7.
However, since July, the fuel supply has become inadequate.
“The diesel is now being distributed to six jetties instead of the original four,” Ng said, adding that the two additional jetties recently registered under LKIM do not have any operational fishing vessels.
He said the reduction in fishing trips has already led to a 60% to 70% drop in fish supplies in the local markets.
Ng warned that if the issue is not addressed promptly, it could have long-term repercussions on the local economy and food security. - October 3, 2024
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