Kuala Lampur:Malaysia has been called upon to prioritize marine food security and pollution prevention as key components of national resilience and economic strategy in the upcoming Budget 2027.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Nur Zulaikha Yusof of Hexagon Synergy Group emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure and systems to tackle marine pollution at its source. She noted that neglecting this issue could negatively impact the ecosystems essential for fisheries and aquaculture.

The fisheries and aquaculture sectors are economically significant, valued at over RM1.3 billion, and provide employment for more than 100,000 people in Malaysia. Dr. Nur Zulaikha highlighted the need for robust port reception facilities (PRFs) to manage ship-generated waste effectively, thus ensuring compliance with international maritime environmental standards.

The government's development and financial strategies should integrate marine environmental protection as part of Malaysia's ESG agenda. This approach is crucial for strengthening marine food security, supporting coastal livelihoods, and expanding the blue economy.

Dr. Nur Zulaikha pointed out that the waste generated by ships, if not properly managed, could harm marine ecosystems and increase cleanup costs. This, in turn, affects seafood availability, fishing activities, and the economic stability of coastal communities. She stressed the importance of Budget 2027 in investing in measures that protect marine environments and, consequently, the nation's food security and coastal economy.

Data from the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Centre (SEAFDEC) shows a decline in Malaysia's marine capture production, with a nearly 190,000-tonne decrease from 2019 to 2023. Dr. Nur Zulaikha emphasized that marine food security extends beyond just catch numbers and includes seafood safety, accessibility to fishing grounds, and sustainable livelihoods.

Protecting the sea from pollution is not only an environmental responsibility but an ESG necessity, as healthy marine ecosystems are vital for food security and economic activity in coastal regions. PRFs play a crucial role in managing ship waste and safeguarding marine resources.

While PRFs alone cannot rebuild fish stocks or replace comprehensive fisheries management, their implementation could significantly reduce contamination risks and protect vital marine habitats.