ACHEHNESE CAN SELL FISH IN MALAYSIA

ALOR STAR (Malaysia), March 30 (Bernama) -- Achenese fishermen will soon be
able to sell their catch in Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis and Lumut.

This follows a decision by the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia
(LKIM) to help the fishermen, not only to sell their catch but increase the
supply of fish in the country, as well.

LKIM director-general Mustafa Ahmad said that previously, the fish was
brought to Medan, Indonesia, before it was exported to Malaysia.

That, he noted, was a time-consuming process.

"Now, they can just send their fish straight to the fish platforms in Kuala
Kedah, Kuala Perlis and Lumut, which will only take an estimated 16 hours.

"The respective fishermen's association in the three areas will be
responsible for ensuring that fish brought into the country is fresh and in
good condition," he said.

Mustafa was speaking to reporters after the 30th Kuala Kedah Fishermen's
Association annual general meeting here Sunday.

He said the association also needed to carry out packing activities
before the fish was put out in the market.

"We estimate fish supply in the country to increase by about 30 tonnes, but
the supply from Achehnese fishermen will not come daily, perhaps every three or
four days," he added.

As a result of the initiative, Mustafa said, LKIM expected the fishermen's
associations in the three areas to become the biggest suppliers of fish in the
country to cater to the needs of locals.

Besides that, shortage of various fish such as threadfin, garoupa and
mackerel could be filled with the extra supply, he said.

-- BERNAMA