Availability of certain species have natural periods of abundance and scarcity throughout year: Specialist

PETALING JAYA: Fluctuations in fish prices and supply in Malaysia are largely driven by seasonal cycles, coastal constraints and consumer behaviour, rather than actual structural shortage, according to Fisheries Development Board chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil.

He said the availability of species such as mackerel and tuna follows natural seasonal patterns, with periods of abundance and scarcity occurring throughout the year.

“Fish are not like livestock. Their availability is seasonal. At certain times, specific species are plentiful, and at others, they are naturally limited,” he said, noting that current shortages of some species are typical, particularly in the early months of the year.

He was addressing the situation in which the prices of popular fishes such as mackerel and tuna increased by more than 30%.

“Normally, mackarel would be priced at RM15-RM16 per kg, but during stock shortage, it could easily be sold at RM20 and above per kg. This is how it is in the north. On the east coast, it is the same problem, just a different type of fish.”

Muhammad Faiz said coastal fishing limitations have also contributed to inconsistent supply, especially among small-scale fishermen operating in nearshore waters.

“We must understand that coastal fishermen rely on relatively small fishing areas. When these areas are affected by coastal development, such as in Malacca and Selangor, their operational space becomes increasingly restricted.

“This directly affects catch volume and species diversity, particularly for fishermen who lack the capacity to venture further offshore.”

He added that deeper waters continue to hold significant fish stocks, but many local fishermen remain hesitant to modernise their operations.

“The government has introduced various initiatives, including financing facilities, to help fishermen upgrade their equipment and move into deep-sea fishing. However, many still prefer to stick to traditional methods.”

According to him, this reluctance to adopt modern practices has also limited productivity and contributed to income instability among coastal fishing communities.

Muhammad Faiz pointed out that cultural and festive periods affect fishing activity across different communities.

“During February and March, catches are typically lower. Besides weather factors, festive seasons also have an impact. Chinese fishermen tend to reduce their time at sea around Chinese New Year while Malay fishermen do the same in the lead-up to Ramadan.”

As a result, reduced fishing activity during these periods leads to lower market supply, which could push prices upward.

However, he emphasised that current price increases remain within reasonable levels.

“Based on our observations, there have been no excessive price hikes that would cause serious concern among consumers,” he noted.

He highlighted the role of consumer habits in shaping market dynamics, arguing that concentrated demand for specific fish species contributes to price volatility.

“The issue is that consumers tend to prefer the same types of fish all year round. When those species are out of season, prices naturally increase because demand remains high.

“We need to become smarter consumers. If mackerel is scarce, opt for other fish that are more readily available. All fish can be delicious if prepared well.”

Muhammad Faiz noted that Malaysia’s overall fish supply remains relatively strong, with a self-sufficiency ratio of around 90%, meaning imports account for only a small portion of total supply.

“Imports make up about 10%, usually for specific species that cannot sufficiently meet domestic demand.”

He pointed to a regional market dynamic in which Malaysia exports a significant portion of its larger fish to neighbouring countries such as Thailand, while domestic consumers tend to favour smaller species.

“We export many of our larger fish, while locally, there is stronger demand for smaller species such as mackerel and scad. This also affects the balance of the market.”

Ultimately, he said market outcomes are shaped not only by supply conditions, but also by consumer behaviour.

“Traders respond to demand. If consumers insist on certain fish despite limited supply, prices will rise. In reality, consumers have alternatives.

“Consumers ultimately influence the market, not just sellers. Greater flexibility in consumption could help ease pressure on prices and supply.”

 The Sun Malaysia