Safma complex should be upgraded — Jeffrey
KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan fully supported the proposal to upgrade the Sabah Fish Marketing Sdn Bhd (Safma) complex to multiply its current capacity and also to explore the Blue Economy.
Speaking to reporters after visiting Safma complex on Tuesday, Jeffrey said he will be bringing the issue to the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, to find ways especially on financial issue that has been the main obstacle to the proposal to upgrade the complex.
Approximately RM8 million is needed to upgrade Safma complex.
“Safma is already 42 years old and is currently struggling to do its best to implement and achieve the goals that have been entrusted.
“Safma has a role in boosting the Sabah fishery sector. However, the existing facility is already old and dilapidated. The appearance no longer matches the needs so it needs to be replaced, renewed and modernised with new facilities,” he said.
Jeffrey, who is also the Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister, said the landing jetty at Safma is no longer able to meet the needs even though receiving more than 80 percent of fish landings in Sabah, or more than 70,000 tons per year compared to other jetties such as Semporna only 30,000 tons and Tawau 29,000 tons.
“Since the current jetty can no longer accommodate the multiple demands, the complex needs to be enlarged and the other facilities also need to be upgraded,” he added.
With an upgraded complex Safma will not only can multiply its capacity and income, but it will also explore Blue Economy, which is a sustainable exploration of marine and coastal resources.
“Once we achieved 100 percent self sufficiency level for food production and fish landings increase, we can export and process our fish to create jobs, add value and eventually the price will go down,” he said.