Association proposes 20,000-litre diesel subsidy as price surge strains S’wak deep-sea fisheries

Harry Tan Joo Seng (fourth from left) after a press conference held at a hotel here on Apr 11.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Apr 11: Deep-sea fishing operators in Sarawak are proposing an allocation of about 20,000 litres of subsidised diesel per C2 vessel as industrial fuel prices climb close to RM7 per litre, intensifying pressure on an already shrinking fleet.

Sarawak Fishing Vessel Association (SFVA) Chairman Harry Tan Joo Seng said the proposal is aimed at cushioning rising operating costs which have forced many deep-sea vessels to scale down or suspend operations.

“Fewer than 30 C2 vessels are currently active in the State, a sharp decline attributed largely to the withdrawal of fuel subsidies and escalating diesel prices.

“C2 vessels are required under fisheries regulations to operate beyond 30 nautical miles from shore, making them heavily dependent on fuel and therefore particularly exposed to price fluctuations,” he said at a press conference in a hotel here today.

Tan added rising fuel prices have made it increasingly difficult for operators to go out to sea, adding that several vessels have already been taken out of operation.

He said operators continue to incur fixed costs, including crew salaries, even when vessels remain docked, with most boats employing between 15 and 20 workers.

The chairman warned that prolonged disruptions in deep-sea fishing activity could tighten domestic seafood supply and increase reliance on imports.

In response, the association said the proposed 20,000-litre allocation, while insufficient to fully meet operational needs, could help stabilise the sector if considered by both the federal and Sarawak governments.

“Industry players are urging a targeted support mechanism rather than a broad subsidy return, in view of fiscal constraints,” he said. — DayakDaily