Kuala lumpur: The government’s recent implementation of targeted fuel subsidies will not impact the original subsidies that are currently being enjoyed by approximately 112,000 registered fishermen across the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Fisheries Development Board (LKIM) chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil highlighted that in addition to the existing subsidies, fishermen are also set to benefit from the BUDI MADANI 95 (BUDI95) initiative. This initiative aims to reduce the traveling costs to petrol stations, thereby easing the financial burden on boat owners who purchase fuel. Faiz mentioned that with the government’s savings offer, fuel prices could be as low as RM1.99 per litre, leading to reduced operational and travel costs for fishermen, which is expected to enhance productivity and fish output.

Faiz shared these insights during a press conference following the LKIM chairman’s Meet-and-Greet event, which also included the presentation of two generator units to the Muar Fishermen’s Association as part of the Development and Empowerment Grant Assistance.

Currently, registered boat owners benefit from the Fishermen’s Diesel and Petrol Subsidy Scheme, which offers fuel at RM1.65 per litre, along with a monthly Cost of Living Allowance of RM300 for fishermen. Faiz also urged fishermen to explore fish farming through aquaculture projects, citing this as a viable alternative to bolster fish supply. He noted the decline in marine resources due to coastal development activities, such as sea reclamation, which impact fishing zones and catch levels.