Pangkor: The government has allocated RM190 million for 13 Special Housing Projects for Fishermen (PKPN) nationwide, all of which are expected to be fully completed within the next two years. Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil announced that eight of these projects have already been occupied, while the remaining five are still in progress, covering regions including Perlis, Kedah, Perak, Melaka, Pahang, Kelantan, Terengganu, Sabah, and Sarawak.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muhammad Faiz expressed optimism that the final five ongoing projects will be completed on schedule during the Fishermen Resettlement (PSN) Key Handover Ceremony at Teluk Gadung Open Area, Pulau Pangkor. The ceremony was also attended by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir and Perak Rural Development, Plantation, Agriculture, and Food Industry Committee chairman Datuk Zolkafly Harun. In 2014, RM24.4 million was previously allocated to build 139 housing units, of which 90 units were handed over in 2019, with the remaining units presented at the ceremony.

Additionally, Muhammad Faiz addressed allegations regarding the misuse of LKIM jetties by foreign vessels or private companies, which could potentially affect the income of small-scale fishermen. He clarified that the jetty in question had been leased to a local operator under the Marine Products Processing Project (PPHP) to ensure full utilization and benefit local industry players. This leasing strategy aims to optimize jetty usage and increase fisheries-based revenue through various approaches.

On November 19, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu stated that the jetties are continuously monitored in cooperation with state LKIM offices, Area Fishermen’s Associations (PNK), and local authorities to detect and address complaints, including those involving private boats or encroachment affecting small operators.