Tok bali: The satellite-based Fishing Site Identification (FSI) system has proven effective in increasing fishermen's catches by between 30 and 50 per cent compared to traditional methods. Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) deputy secretary-general (Planning and Science Enculturation) Ruziah Shafei said the technology was developed by the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) using satellite data to identify locations with high fish populations, with the information directly channelled to registered fishermen. 'This saves time, reduces fuel consumption and increases their catches,' she told reporters at the closing ceremony of the Komuniti MADANI Nelayan Digital programme at Dewan Serbaguna Penempatan Semula Nelayan Tok Bali, here today.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MYSA director-general Datuk Azlikamil Napiah said the implementation of the FSI system was made possible through collaboration with several agencies, including the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM), the Department of Fisheries (DoF) and the National Fishermen's Association (NEKMAT). 'So far, most fishermen, especially the younger generation, are now more adept at using the technology, and the expansion of the FSI system now includes Zone A (coastal), compared to the initial focus on deep sea (Zone C),' he said. 'Fishermen using the FSI system have recorded a significant increase in their catch. Although detailed statistics are managed by partner agencies such as LKIM and the DoF, we have been informed that the increase is as high as 50 per cent compared to before the technology was introduced,' he said.

Azlikamil stated that MYSA would continue to enhance the FSI system by integrating the latest innovations and expanding its functions to include monitoring boat movements for safety and supporting the sustainable management of marine resources. He added that space technology was not limited to the aerospace or defence sectors, as it had also proven to benefit the fisheries sector and contributed to local economic development. 'One of MYSA's main priorities is to extend the use of space technology to benefit the people. We hope to register and train more fishing communities under the FSI system so that strategic data remains secure while helping to improve their well-being,' he said.

Meanwhile, fisherman Mohd Amir Hashim, 45, expressed that the use of the FSI system had helped deep-sea fishermen increase their catch and income by up to 50 per cent. 'I've been using the FSI system for the past two to three years and have seen a significant increase in income. It makes it easier for us to locate fish, as the data is sent directly to our email. We just need to head to the identified areas,' he said.

Zone A coastal fisherman Zahari Samad, 64, shared that the FSI system developed by MYSA is a valuable tool that could help increase catches and improve sea trip planning. 'I've just started using the system after the monsoon, but I believe it will be a big help for Zone A fishermen, given the high potential yield in this area,' he said.