December 1, 2006

Malaysia aims to expand aquaculture production

Malaysia will implement advanced hatchery technology and fish breeding methods, especially the "recirculating aquaculture system" (RAS), to increase marine fish production to 122,000 tonnes by 2010, local media reported.

Fisheries Department Director-General, Dato Junaidi Che Ayub, said the advanced technology would boost production and allow Malaysia to pursue new markets for aquaculture products in Europe.

Malaysia has to boost production from its 12,000 tonnes currently, he said.

Junaidi was confident that the target of 21 billion marine fish fry would be achieved if the government's aim to create 22,284 aquaculture entrepreneurs by 2010 succeeds.

He also said that the giant grouper was chosen for further research to assess its possibilities in aquaculture because of its high market value.

The giant grouper can weigh between 60 kg and 140 kg each and can fetch between RM70 (US$19.3) and RM180 (US$49.75) per kg.