Kuala lumpur: The country's fish supply remains unaffected by the global energy crisis stemming from the West Asia conflict, the Department of Fisheries (DOF) director-general Datuk Adnan Hussain said. He stated that fishing vessel operations in zones A, B, and C are continuing normally, supported by government fuel subsidies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, deep-sea C2 fishermen are currently experiencing higher fuel costs, but the expectation is for them to continue operations to ensure the country's fish supply remains secure. Adnan explained that even if the situation deteriorates and vessels cannot operate at full capacity, the current stockpiles would sustain fish production for three months. He shared these insights while addressing reporters at the engagement programme on amendments to the Fisheries Act 2025 and the Iran-US war's impact on Malaysia's fishing industry, held at Menara Air Perak.

Adnan highlighted that aquaculture could maintain steady fish supplies if sea fishing faces disruptions, despite anticipated rises in feed costs due to logistical challenges. Farmers' existing stocks are expected to keep output stable. He also mentioned that the DOF is closely monitoring weather patterns, particularly El Ni±o, which might affect river levels and aquaculture production in several states this May and June.

Additionally, Adnan discussed the amendments to the Fisheries Act 2025, which were passed on December 31 and will take effect on June 1. These amendments aim to address pressing issues such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, dwindling stocks, and climate impacts on food security. The revised legislation will enhance the regulation of fishing operations, including landings, transhipments, and vessel movements, and impose stricter penalties for violations.

Adnan noted that the amendments introduce new interpretations, sections, and improvements to existing provisions, thus making the fisheries legal framework more comprehensive and responsive to current needs.