29/03/2026

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday MAR 29, 2026

‘Fish prices spike due to seasonal cycles’

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

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“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.

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.

Muhammad Faiz highlighted the role of consumer habits in shaping market dynamics, arguing that concentrated demand for specific fish species contributes to price volatility. – MASRY CHE ANI/THE SUN

and waves are high, it is too dangerous to go out. Some have lost their lives at sea. Safety has to come first.” Looking ahead, he said supply is expected to improve in the coming months as the monsoon season approaches, pleading with consumers to be understanding of the challenges faced by fishermen, noting that on some days, their catch does not even cover the cost of going out to sea. “During this period, most coastal fishermen in Malaysia have to venture further than usual to secure their catch. As you know, there is no certainty in how much we will bring back. That is why many fishermen choose to take on odd jobs on land during this season.” – BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE “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.”

among crew members and the boat owner, with extra portions allocated for maintaining equipment and covering operational expenses. “If four of us go out to sea, the income is divided. One part goes to the boat and engine while the rest is shared among the crew and the owner.” Jafri said despite the potential for profit during peak seasons, income is far from stable. “When there are fish, we can make money. But when there is none, we still have to bear the costs. Sometimes after deducting fuel and expenses, there is very little left.” He added that unpredictable weather conditions often force fishermen to stay ashore for safety reasons. “When the winds are strong “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.

Supply fluctuations tied to weather patterns PETALING JAYA: The spike in prices of popular fish types in the first quarter of this year is not linked to the war in the Middle East, but rather a recurring seasonal phenomenon at the start of the year. fish eggs do not mature, so supply becomes limited.” He explained that during the rainy season, conditions improve significantly as nutrient-rich elements such as plankton become more abundant in the water, creating a better environment for marine life. they return to deeper waters. That is when we see more and better yields.” However, he emphasised that overfishing, particularly of juvenile fish, poses a long-term threat to sustainability.

“If we keep catching small fish before they mature, they do not get the chance to reproduce. That is why supply could drop over time.” Beyond environmental factors, he pointed to rising operational costs as another key challenge affecting fishermen. “Fuel, equipment and maintenance costs are high. A commercial boat engine can cost over RM70,000 and it needs regular repairs due to heavy use,” he added. He also said earnings from each fishing trip are divided

A fisherman from Seberang Perai in Penang said the hot weather affecting northern states during the early months has a direct impact on fish distribution at sea. The fisherman, who identified himself as Jafri Salim, said fluctuations in supply are closely tied to changing weather patterns, particularly the transition between the dry and monsoon seasons. “During the hot season, the sea conditions and water temperature affect fish breeding cycles. When the water is colder,

“When it rains, the sea becomes richer with plankton, which serves as food for fish. That is when fish start to gather and breed more actively.” Jafri added that larger species such as sharks, threadfin, croakers and snapper tend to move closer to coastal areas during spawning periods, contributing to higher catches when conditions are favourable. “Fish come closer to shore to lay eggs, but they do not stay long. Once they spawn,