MALAYSIA TO SHOWCASE ORNAMENTAL FISH INDUSTRY

DUBAI, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is among the countries taking part in
an ornamental aquatic exhibition here next month, billed by its organisers as
the largest consumer event for the marine aquarium industry in the Middle East.

"By launching 'Aquariya Expo 2009', we are seeking to take a crucial step
in developing the ornamental fish industry in the region amid its growing repute
as a new point of growth in Middle East fishing industry," said Orange Fairs &
Events director Raees Ahmed.

As an essential part of modern urban fish industry in the Middle East, he
said, the ornamental fish industry also played a pivotal role in accelerating
supporting industries, including fishing equipment, feed, fishing medicines and
aquarium equipment.

Latest market figures show that the value of ornamental fish imports to the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) crossed US$1.14 million in 2008, with demand for
exotic fishes in the country expected to grow by five to seven percent annually.

In a statement, Orange Fairs & Events said confirmed participants from
Brazil, China, France, India, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Slovakia,
Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the UAE, the United States, Poland and Qatar will also
be exposed to the latest technological innovations in aquarium keeping,
appraisal on the global market trends, marketing issues and challenges, as well
as policies and legislation.

Government bodies participating in the March 4-6 event include the Marine
Export Promotion and Development Authority of India and Malaysia's Fisheries
Department.
-- BERNAMA