PENGERANG, JULY 6 — The welfare and long-term sustainability of fishermen in Sungai Rengit must be given serious and immediate attention, following a key engagement session between the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) leadership and the local fishing community, said Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, Faizul Abdul Ghani.
The meeting, involving LKIM Chairman Tuan Haji Muhammad Faiz bin Dato’ Haji Fadzil and the Sungai Rengit Fishermen Association, provided a platform for local fishermen to directly voice long-standing issues affecting their livelihoods.
Faizul said fishermen must not only be heard during specific seasons or occasions, but their concerns must be continuously addressed as they form a vital part of the local economy in Tanjung Surat, particularly in Sungai Rengit and surrounding coastal areas.
Among the key issues raised was the fishing licence system, where concerns were expressed over inactive licence holders while active fishermen struggle to obtain proper licensing. It was also highlighted that out of nearly 300 fishermen in the area, a significant number are still operating without formal licences despite relying on fishing as their primary source of income.
Fishermen proposed a comprehensive verification or field audit exercise by LKIM and the Department of Fisheries to ensure that licences are issued to genuine active fishermen, so that government aid, subsidies, and protection reach the intended recipients.
The issue of licensing was also discussed in relation to Sungai Rengit’s strategic coastal location near international waters and close proximity to Singapore, where proper documentation is crucial to prevent enforcement complications or detention by foreign maritime authorities.
In addition, fishermen raised concerns over shallow river mouth conditions, which have increasingly affected boat movement during tidal changes. They said the situation not only hampers access to fishing grounds but also poses safety risks and reduces daily income opportunities.
Environmental concerns were also highlighted, including reported oil spill incidents involving nearby vessels. Fishermen called for clearer reporting channels and faster response mechanisms to ensure that such incidents are addressed promptly to prevent damage to marine ecosystems and fishing areas.
Seasonal monsoon conditions were also discussed, as fishermen face income disruptions during periods when they are unable to go out to sea. They urged a review of eligibility conditions for fuel subsidy schemes to ensure that weather-related restrictions do not unfairly affect their access to assistance.
Other issues raised included the need for coastal breakwater structures to reduce erosion, improved access to fishing nets due to rising costs, and the construction of new jetties closer to fishermen’s settlements to reduce travel distance, cost, and time while improving local economic activity.
Faizul said he welcomed the commitment by the LKIM Chairman to escalate the issues raised to the Department of Fisheries for further action, stressing the need for concrete follow-up rather than discussions alone.
“As the Pakatan Harapan candidate for N39 Tanjung Surat, I want to emphasise that the welfare and rights of fishermen are central to my Seven Commitments for the people of Tanjung Surat,” he said.
He added that if given the mandate, he would continue to champion fishermen’s rights, particularly on licensing, infrastructure, maritime safety, equipment assistance, and economic protection in a more structured and sustainable manner.
“Fishermen are not only contributors to the seafood supply chain, but they are an essential part of the Tanjung Surat community who must be defended through clear policies, attention, and real action,” he said.
“Johor Ke Depan, Vote HARAPAN,” he added.
— MINUTESMY
