MALAYSIA, BANGI, August 6, 2024 – Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, inaugurated the 2024 Aquaculture Seminar themed ‘Empowering Aquaculture Towards National Food Security’ yesterday.
The seminar, organized by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF), focused on cultivating modern, sustainable, and competitive aquaculture practices. A total of 350 participants, including industry players, aquaculture farmers, and associations from across Malaysia, attended the hybrid event.
According to Arthur, the seminar aligns with one of the goals of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM)which are to strengthening the aquaculture industry to reduce reliance on natural water resources (wild fisheries) and transition to high-productivity aquaculture focusing on key species, supported by cutting-edge technology.
The aquaculture sector is a primary focus for KPKM to ensure sufficient and secure food sources. Based on the National Agri-Food Policy (DAN 2.0), aquaculture production is targeted to contribute 40% compared to 60% from wild capture fisheries by 2030.
In 2024, KPKM aims for aquaculture production of 500,000 metric tons, and we have already achieved 50% of that target. Today, KPKM, through the Department of Fisheries Malaysia, contributes RM8.31 million to enhance aquaculture production in line with DAN 2.0, targeting 630,000 metric tons with a value of RM4.8 billion by 2025,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the seminar serves as an excellent platform for all stakeholders to share ideas, explore best practices using modern technology, and enhance operational efficiency and systematic resource management to achieve national food security goals.
Six presenters from government departments, agencies, and university representatives discussed various aspects of the aquaculture industry and technological advancements. Additionally, a sharing session featured two successful aquaculture farmers who have implemented technology in their farming systems
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