Sabah People's Fish Programme boosts food security with affordable fresh fish

Burhan visits the Labuan Fish Market and the LKIM Fisheries Complex in Labuan.

SAFMA's Sabah People's Fish Programme strengthens food security by supplying affordable fresh fish, supporting local fishermen and expanding sustainable fisheries initiatives.

LABUAN: The Sabah People's Fish Programme (IRS), implemented by SAFMA, continues to play a vital role in strengthening the state's food security by providing fresh, high-quality fish at affordable prices to the public.

SAFMA general manager Burhan Japar said the programme was introduced to ensure that all segments of society, particularly low- and middle-income groups, have access to quality sources of protein without being burdened by the rising cost of living.

He said the IRS not only benefits consumers but also helps increase the income of local fishermen through the direct purchase of their catch, creating a more efficient and sustainable supply chain.

"This programme ensures a sufficient supply of fresh, safe-to-eat fish while strengthening the economic well-being of fishing communities and supporting the development of Sabah's fisheries industry," he said.

He was speaking while attending the Road to MAHA 2026 Labuan programme at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex. 

Burhan said SAFMA's participation in the exhibition serves as a platform to introduce the Sabah People's Fish Programme to the public, while also promoting its services, seafood-based products and collaboration opportunities through the registration of SAFMA business partners.

He said visitors also had the opportunity to obtain information on seafood products, enjoy seafood-based Menu Rakyat offerings, and participate in various interactive activities organised throughout the exhibition.

In line with Sabah's Blue Economy aspirations, Burhan said SAFMA would continue expanding the IRS through the development of cold storage facilities, block ice supply, value-added seafood products, wider distribution networks and the implementation of the Zero Waste Fisheries initiative.

"The Sabah People's Fish Programme is not merely about providing affordable fish. It is a long-term investment in building a sustainable fisheries ecosystem, increasing fishermen's incomes and ensuring a secure food supply for the people," he said.

As part of its working visit to Labuan, the SAFMA delegation also toured the Labuan Fish Market and the Labuan Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) Fisheries Complex to observe the territory's fisheries marketing operations and supply chain.

Also present were SAFMA deputy general manager Azis Ali Amat and members of the SAFMA management team.


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