LKIM: 50-Litre Daily Fuel Subsidy Quota Sufficient for Fishermen
IPOH — The Lembaga Kemajuan Ikan Malaysia (LKIM) has maintained that the daily allocation of 50 litres of subsidised fuel at RM1.65 per litre remains sufficient to support the operational needs of most fishermen.
Chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil said the subsidy is designed to ease operating costs, particularly amid rising living expenses and global cost pressures.
He noted that fuel consumption varies depending on vessel size and engine power, which explains why some fishermen may require more than the allocated amount.
“Any usage beyond the quota must be borne by the fishermen themselves, as the subsidy is intended to cover only part of their expenses,” he said.
He added that the current quota remains practical and adequate for the majority of fishing operations.
The government currently allocates around 70 million litres of subsidised diesel each month to fishermen nationwide, covering those in Zones A, B, and C, who continue to enjoy the fixed subsidised rate.
However, fishermen in Zone C2 are not included in the subsidy scheme, and LKIM is reviewing possible measures to assist them within existing allocations.
Despite rising global fuel prices driven by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, local fishermen remain shielded through the maintained subsidy mechanism.
This reflects continued efforts by the government to ensure the resilience of the fisheries sector.
In addition, Muhammad Faiz said fish supply in the market is currently stable and sufficient, supported by a strong fishing season.
Higher catch volumes have increased supply, in some cases exceeding demand, which helps to stabilise prices.
This has also enabled the rollout of affordable fish sales programmes across the country.
Overall, the combination of fuel subsidies and favourable seasonal conditions is helping to ensure stable seafood supply and pricing for consumers.
-wilayah.com.my
