Sungai kerang: The approval of Temporary Occupation Licences (TOL) for cockle farming in Larut Matang Selama (LMS) and Kerian must be based on production levels to ensure these aquaculture areas are managed efficiently, said Perak Rural Development, Plantation, Agriculture, and Food Industry Committee chairman, Datuk Zolkafly Harun.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zolkafly expressed confidence that the LMS and Kerian District and Land Offices would implement this mechanism to address an issue persisting since January 27. He emphasized the need for detailed assessments by the district offices to prioritize active cockle farmers for licence approval. This matter, previously discussed in the State Aquaculture Committee meeting, aims for a timely resolution.

Zolkafly made these remarks at a press conference during the Fishermen’s Association Empowerment and Marine Resource Sustainability Programme at the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) jetty in Sungai Kerang. Earlier this year, on January 27, Sungai Tinggi Fishermen’s Association chairman Abu Salim Karim highlighted that over 250 cockle farmers from Kuala Sepetang (LMS) to Bagan Panchor (Kerian) urged state intervention over pending TOL applications since late 2019. The absence of TOLs hampers authorities’ ability to curb theft activities in cockle farms, resulting in collective monthly losses exceeding RM500,000.

Zolkafly also revealed plans to expand cockle farming in the Bagan Datuk district, targeting over 1,200 hectares by next year. This initiative seeks to maintain Perak as a significant contributor to national cockle production. The development involves collaboration among various agencies, including LKIM, to sustain food production contributions from the industry.

Furthermore, LKIM has allocated RM850,000 to enhance the production efficiency of fishing communities in Perak. This support includes incentives and project developments for cockle and mud crab farming. Of this allocation, RM450,000 is designated for equipment such as outboard engines, insulated containers, life jackets, safety lights, and raincoats for fishermen in Kerian, Matang, and Sungai Tinggi. The remaining RM406,000 supports zakat contributions and the Cockle Farming Project by the Perak Fishermen’s Association (PENGGERAK) and the Mud Crab Farming Project by the Sungai Tinggi, Larut Matang Selama Area Fishermen’s Association.

Zolkafly highlighted the allocation’s significance in ensuring a sufficient food supply through the fisheries sector, aligning with food security goals under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan.