June 20, 2023

Shrimp farming company first in Malaysia to receive Aquaculture Stewardship Council certification

Sankina Aquaculture Sdn Bhd, a shrimp farming company located on Sabah state, has become the first in Malaysia to be awarded the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification, a globally recognised eco-label, The Star reported.

The certification was granted after Sankina Aquaculture collaborated with WWF Malaysia to implement the Aquaculture Improvement Project (AIP) in 2019.

Supported by Marina Bay Sands and WWF-Singapore, the AIP aimed to assist aquaculture farms in obtaining ASC certification and advancing their sustainability practices. Sankina Aquaculture actively participated in the program, undertaking restoration and preservation initiatives for the mangrove areas within and adjacent to their farm site. They also implemented rigorous protocols for wastewater treatment to effectively manage pollution and established systems to improve workers' welfare.

The positive impact of their mangrove preservation efforts is evident as there has been an increase in sightings of migratory birds surrounding the farm, as stated in a WWF Malaysia statement on Monday.

Recognising these commendable efforts, the Sabah Fisheries Department provided crucial support, paving the way for Sankina Aquaculture to become the first shrimp farm in Malaysia to receive the esteemed ASC certification.

Jenny Ou, the managing director of Sankina Aquaculture, said that the recognition serves as a testament to their dedication to preserving the planet and securing a brighter future for generations to come. Ou described the ASC certification as a significant milestone in their sustainability journey.

Roy van Daatselaar, Global Lead of the ASC Improver Programme, expressed hope that Sankina Aquaculture's certification would inspire other farms to follow a similar "improvement pathway" in their pursuit of sustainable practices.

Sophia Lim, the CEO of WWF Malaysia, said that aquaculture development can thrive without harming the environment when managed carefully, particularly in vulnerable mangrove areas in Malaysia.

-      The Star