Teluk Kemang: The Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Council (MAINS) has taken a proactive step by developing the state's first Solar Drying Dome to boost dried fish production and empower the economy of the fishing community in Teluk Kemang. MAINS chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Aziz Sheikh Ab Kadir said the project, carried out through a strategic collaboration with Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad, is expected to benefit over 200 fishermen by enhancing their income through the production of various types of dried and salted fish.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Solar Drying Dome, funded through MAINS' waqf initiative, aims to increase the income of the local fishing community. The facility significantly speeds up the drying process, allowing small-sized fish to be dried within three to four hours, compared to the traditional method that takes four to five days or even longer during the rainy season. For instance, fresh Talang fish is sold at about RM5 per kilogramme and sometimes struggles to find buyers. However, when processed into salted fish, its price can reach RM40 per kilogramme.

The technology ensures fish are dried more efficiently, hygienically, and consistently, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of local products in the market. With the coming Ramadan, Abdul Aziz anticipated an increase in the demand for dried fish as it is a popular choice for meals during 'sahur' (pre-dawn meals) and iftar (breaking fast).

In addition to fish, the Solar Drying Dome can also be used to process dried chillies. "Malaysia imports most of its dried chillies, so make the most of this facility," he said, adding that fishermen in the Port Dickson area can also use the facility.

Meanwhile, Teluk Kemang Fishermen's Association general manager Mohd Faudzi Mohamed Zakaria stated that the association received the facility, built at a cost of more than RM130,000, in the middle of last year. Dried fish produced using the Solar Drying Dome has a significantly longer shelf life, up to two years, compared to fresh fish. For example, fresh jenahak fish in this state is sold at RM45 to RM48 per kilogramme. However, when processed into salted fish, the price can increase to RM60 to RM70 per kilogramme.