March 11, 2024

Malaysian fish farmers flourish amid heatwave

During Malaysia's blistering heatwave, local fish farmers find themselves thriving, as the prolonged dry spell is proving to be a boon for their yields, The Star reported.

Chairman of the Sungai Udang Caged Fish Farmers Association, Tioh Tiang Lai, said that hotter weather translates to better conditions for fish farming. He highlighted the challenges posed by storms, which can damage cages and disrupt fish habitats, but noted that the current weather is ideal for their operations.

There are over 100 fish farms visible along the path to Penang, Malaysia, supplying over 40,000 tonnes of saltwater fish annually to nearly every market, supermarket, and seafood restaurant across the Malaysian peninsula.

Tioh said that the warm-water fish they breed thrive in shallower, warmer waters, and the current climate is conducive to their growth.

The 110 fish farmers in Penang primarily cater to the local market, ensuring stable prices and sufficient supply for consumers. Fishmonger Ong Chong Way corroborated this, stating that there is an ample supply of various local fish, squid, and prawns, sourced from nearby farms and fishermen.

Despite the heatwave, prices remain stable, with barramundi priced at MYR 10 (US$2.14) to MYR 11 (US$2.35) each, squid at MYR 18 (US$3.84) for 500g, and prawns ranging from MYR 18 (US$3.84) to MYR 35 (US$7.48) for 500g, depending on size and species.

-      The Star