January 3, 2008

Malaysia generates US$9.1 million for aquaculture

The newly organized Malaysian Islamic Chamber of Commerce (MICC) generated US$9.1 million to push for seafood exports.

Target markets include China, Hong Kong and EU. For a start, MICC will have two fish/crab ponds in each village and additional 100 ponds to be in place by August this year.

MICC also taps on the support of the Malaysian government agencies, as part of the fund is expected from the National Agriculture and Aquaculture policy.

Isli Siput, MICC Labuan division chairman, said that they seek to transform traditional methods of fishing into modern ways to augment commercial gains.

Siput is optimistic that there would be a large demand for crabs, prawns, fish and other marine species. Prized delicacies from the island would one day find their way into overseas markets, according to Siput.

MICC provide fishermen and farmers training on the latest technology and technical know-how on aquaculture.