There’s still fish in the market — LKIM

KUCHING: The Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority ( LKIM) yesterday assured the public that the supply of fish in the market is still steady.

Its state marketing unit head Pada Bijo said they were, however, monitoring the situation in ensuring that demand and supply are balanced to counter profiteering.

He said their officers would be on the ground talking to the relevant people in the fishing industry.

Their next course of action would depend very much on the situation here ( Kuching), Buntal and Mukah, he added.

“The sea is a bit rough and fishermen do not want to go out to the sea. The supply of fish in the market is generally low these last few days but I hope the situation will return to normal by middle of February, weather permitting.

“Bigger vessels can overcome the waves. But, the operators have to think carefully whether to take the risk now that the Meteorological Department and Marine Department have issued a warning of possible rough seas and thunderstorms,” he said.

There are still no complaints f r om the publ ic and the retailers because there is still a considerable number of frozen fish, inland fish and cultured fish around.

Pada said the impor ters also play an important role in balancing demand and supply to keep prices affordable.

“This kind of weather is in fact a blessing in disguise for importers as well farmers of inland fishery. I am sure they would know what to do given the opportunity,” said Pada, adding that the purchasing power of Sarawakians is good.

Seafood in popular demand are squid and local fish like Kembung, Selar, Jamah and Tongkol, as well as imported fish like sardines.

“The popular Terubok may be less in supply now until May,” he said.