Malaysian deep-sea fishermen halt operations as fuel costs bite

Rising fuel costs are forcing Malaysian deep-sea fishermen in the C2 category to temporarily cease operations, potentially impacting local fish landings. According to the Department of Fisheries, 57 operators, or 14.25% of the 400 C2 boats nationwide, have chosen to stay ashore.

These C2 fishermen are the only group not receiving government fuel subsidies, unlike categories A, B, and C. Their operational costs are significantly higher as they fish about 30 nautical miles offshore. The current global fuel price surge has made it unsustainable for many to continue fishing.

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The operational costs for them are much higher because the fishing grounds are about 30 nautical miles from the coast. As a result of the increase in global market fuel prices, some of them have decided to temporarily suspend operations.

The Department of Fisheries acknowledges the difficulties faced by C2 boat operators and assures them that their licenses will not be suspended during this period. While local fish landings may see a slight dip, the overall seafood supply in the country is expected to remain stable, supported by aquaculture and catches from other fishing categories.

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We expect a slight decrease in fish landings, but the overall supply is still sufficient because it is also supported by production from the aquaculture sector and other categories of fishermen.