Fisheries and Livestock Minister, M Abdur Rahman, has announced the government's intention to restrict the production of illegal fishing nets, including monofilament and current nets, with the aim of boosting fisheries output in natural habitats across the country. He emphasized that those using such nets, particularly for catching young fish like Jatka, are enemies of society and will face strict consequences. He made these remarks during the inauguration of Jatka Conservation Week-2024 in Chandpur.

Source: www.bssnews.net

Highlighting both the significant economic potential of seabed minerals and the accompanying environmental consequences for ocean health and future generations, Dr. Transform Aqoraua, prominent expert in the Pacific Tuna industry, addressed attendees at the Fiji National University in Suva last week. He highlighted that the current regional architecture used for tuna management does not adequately address deep seabed mining. Therefore, Dr. Aqorau stressed the necessity of establishing a proper framework for seabed mining development, with a focus on environmental preservation and social equity. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of exercising caution and conducting thorough scientific research before proceeding with any deep-sea mining operations, given the uncertainties surrounding their potential impacts.

Source: Island Business

Highlighting the government's commitment to enhancing the Blue Economy as a means of maintaining food security, Dr Jeffrey emphasized the extensive potential of the Blue Economy across different sectors, such as enriching fish resources, boosting processing activities, producing downstream products, and expanding marketing areas.

Datuk Seri Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry for Sabah, emphasized this during his visit to Sabah Fish Marketing Sdn Bhd (SAFMA), where he stressed, the importance of SAFMA prioritizing and capitalizing on various opportunities under the Blue Economy initiatives. Such initiatives included focusing on ocean fishery activities categorized as C2 and C3, as well as exploring joint ventures with potential investors. In addition, it was timely to review plans for the development and upgrading of facilities, such as ports or integrated fish landing complexes that support blue economy joint venture arrangements.

Source: Bernama, Malaysia