New RM5.81 million processing and storage hub in Jertih aims to cut out middlemen, manage supply, and ensure stable fish prices for fishermen and consumers.
JERTIH: A new fisheries hub on the east coast aims to stabilise market prices by shortening the supply chain. The Fish Collection, Processing, Storage and Distribution Hub (HPPPP) was officially launched to reduce dependence on intermediaries.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the RM5.81 million facility has been operational since January last year. It features a 300-metric-tonne cold room and blast freezer for large-scale storage and processing.
“This HPPPP acts as a ‘shield’ for fishermen and consumers,” he said at a programme here. He explained the hub allows for systematic management of surplus catch, especially during peak seasons.
A robust storage system ensures excess seafood is preserved for periods of limited supply. This helps maintain the nation’s protein availability during the monsoon.
Mohamad said the goal is for fish to move directly from the complex to consumers. This reduces the role of middlemen who can suppress prices paid to fishermen.
“This hub will help ensure more stable fish prices and larger profit margins for fishermen,” he stated. He described this as part of the MADANI economy, delivering fairness to both producers and consumers.
The minister also inaugurated a RM2.5 million ice plant for the Besut Area Fishermen’s Association (PNK). The new phase increases ice production by 50 tonnes per day.
PNK Besut’s total daily capacity is now 103 tonnes, crucial for meeting local demand. The ice is essential for maintaining optimal catch quality before nationwide distribution.
PNK Besut chairman Tengku Harun Tengku Ismail said the hub should address price drops during oversupply. He noted fish volumes surge after the monsoon season ends in March.
This often forces fishermen to sell at lower prices, though retail costs remain high. The hub is expected to purchase excess catch, resolving the oversupply issue.
He added that about 1,000 fishermen under PNK Besut are actively fishing. The hub’s intervention is anticipated to ensure more stable income for them.
The Sun Malaysia
