ALOR GAJAH, March 26 (Bernama) -- The federal government, through the Melaka government, has allocated RM9 million to develop the aquaculture industry in the state, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
He said the initiative is specifically aimed at assisting fishermen affected by coastal development in Melaka while also driving the growth of the state’s aquaculture sector.
"I recently attended the National Finance Council Meeting, where the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) approved a RM9 million allocation through the Finance Ministry secretary-general to develop the aquaculture industry.
"We will identify affected fishermen through fishermen’s associations and determine suitable areas for aquaculture development, such as the farming of cockles, sea bass, mussels and clams," he said today.
He was speaking at the Ex Gratia Payment Programme for fishermen affected by the Kuala Linggi International Port (KLIP) development, which was also attended by state Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security Committee chairman Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh.
He said the aquaculture industry has the potential to generate lucrative returns for operators while also helping to ensure the country's food security.
According to him, RM1.43 million has been distributed to 438 fishermen in Melaka and Negeri Sembilan affected by the KLIP project.
He said the ex gratia payment, in its third phase, benefited 265 fishermen from Alor Gajah, 134 from Port Dickson and 39 inland fishermen in Alor Gajah.
"The state government has agreed to expedite the ex gratia payments for 2025 as a testament to our commitment to safeguarding the welfare and well-being of fishermen affected by the KLIP development.
"At the same time, we hope this assistance can help them prepare for Syawal so they can celebrate Hari Raya more joyfully," he said.
-- BERNAMA
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