3 days ago
Budget 2026: LKIM Seeks Allocation To Repair Ageing Fish Landing Complexes
GEORGE TOWN, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- The Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM) hoped that the government will allocate funds under the 2026 Budget, to be tabled in October, to repair ageing fish landing complexes and facilities across the country.
LKIM chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil said the agency has identified more than 10 dilapidated fish landing complexes in need of urgent repairs, including those in Chendering, Kemaman and Dungun in Terengganu; Kota Tinggi in Johor; and Lumut in Perak.
'The main priority I want to focus on is securing a budget that emphasises the rehabilitation of fish landing complexes, as many of these facilities are in a dilapidated state. We are currently conducting studies to identify the necessary upgrades so that repairs can be carried out next year.
'The amount of allocation required is still being evaluated by the Public Works Department, and we hope it will be included in the Budget 2026,' he told reporters after presenting aid to fishermen during the LKIM chairman's Rahmah Mesra MADANI with Penang fishermen at the Jelutong Fish Landing Complex here today.
Meanwhile, he also expressed hope that the government would continue existing initiatives and assistance for fishermen to safeguard their welfare, while at the same time motivating them to be more productive in boosting their catch.
Muhammad Faiz also expressed hope that the 2026 Budget, to be tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, will continue key initiatives, including the RM1.6 billion fuel subsidy allocated this year, the fishermen's housing project, and the rehabilitation of ageing fish landing complexes and facilities nationwide.
On requests from fishermen for the government to consider import duty exemptions on equipment such as nets and fishing gear, he said any adjustment would require careful study and deliberation at both the ministry and Cabinet levels.
'There is a need to review import duties in the upcoming Budget 2026 to help ensure the sustainability and financial stability of the fishing industry. While import duties remain an important source of government revenue, discussions on possible exemptions are still ongoing,' he said.
He added that recent concerns in the sector were also triggered by the imposition of the sales and service tax (SST) on various aquaculture materials.
