AS part of efforts to revive the tuna industry in the state, the Penang government is currently in the process of identifying a suitable location or port to develop into a significant tuna landing hub.
Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol explained that Penang used to be a key port in the region for the tuna industry.
“This is due to the strategic location of the state, with facilities such as ports and airports for facilitating the easier export of high-demand saltwater fish like tuna.
“Penang was designed as a tuna port in the country, alongside Langkawi, before tuna catching activities declined as many tuna operators moved to other countries.
“Nevertheless, the state government is committed to reviving the tuna industry by finding a strategic tuna landing hub.
“This initiative will not only attract more investment from international tuna industry players but also positively influence the agro-tourism industry in the state and boost the export of Penang’s fish products,” Fahmi (PH-Pantai Jerejak) told the State Legislative Assembly during his winding-up speech at the State Assembly Building in Light Street today.
Fahmi added that the tuna landing hub project, once materialised, will also include food and beverages (F&B) shop lots, a fish market, and various fisheries activities.
“We want to create something similar to the Yaizu fish market in Japan, which is renowned for its tuna products while maintaining Penang’s unique identity to make this tuna landing hub as distinctive as possible,” he said.
According to Fahmi, the tuna landing hub project will consider various factors such as water conditions, location suitability, related facilities and infrastructures before it can begin.
He emphasised that this is crucial to ensure that the chosen location is the most suitable for the project and complies with international standards.
On another matter, Fahmi announced that the Penang government plans to introduce its own rice product, known as ‘Beras Cap Feri,’ which will be sold at a lower price compared to current market rates.
He mentioned that a special committee, the Penang Rice Steering Committee, has been established to oversee its implementation.
“Through this committee, we are focusing on marketing Beras Cap Feri soon, with the price and quantity to be determined in subsequent meetings.
“Most importantly, the state government is making every effort to offer a price lower than the current market rate,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting