KOTA KINABALU – Sabah is seeking the right to collect revenue for all of its marine products and to regain control over its fisheries sector.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan said the state government is currently working to restore its rights over the state’s waters.
“We must do this because right now, we do not have the right to collect revenue from our own marine products, except for inland products such as fresh water and aquaculture products.
“The Fisheries Act 1985 gives the right to the federal government to collect revenue for all marine products, which means that we are losing millions of ringgit in revenue.
“Sabah may only reopen its fishing industry to investors once it regains its rights to its sea and marine products,” he said.
Jeffrey said this in a statement after hosting the Malaysia China Business Council (MCBC) delegates on Friday.
Jeffrey said that currently, the state’s fisheries sector generates up to RM800 million annually, which goes directly to the federal government through the Fisheries Development Authority.
He said the situation has to be rectified as soon as possible so the state can regain control of the industry, including in handling the issuance of licences.
In addition, Jeffrey said that having rights over its own waters would mean that Sabah will be able to attract investors interested in its fisheries industry.
“Here is where we need the assistance from MCBC, to be the bridge for exports of Sabah’s produce to the Chinese market.
“We also welcome investors who are willing to share their technology to help increase our downstream industries and modernise Sabah’s farming and agriculture,” he said. – The Vibes, March 7, 2021
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